As part of LGBT+ History Month this February, we caught up with 18-year-old Josh Hughes, A Level student and the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual plus) Officer for the Student Union, to find out about the importance of inclusivity, the support we offer at college, and his thoughts on the meaning of this month.
What does LGBT+ History Month mean to you personally?
LGBT+ History Month is about representing those who fought for mine and many other peoples' rights to exist and openly express themselves. Many individuals in the community historically were shunned or lost their lives for being themselves, and I believe it should be our job as individuals in a safer, more tolerant society today to not only remember and honour those people, but to also celebrate their lives and achievements.
Can you think of any LGBTQIA+ role models throughout history that you think deserve a mention?
Quite a few! First of all, Bayard Rustin. He was a gay black man who basically organised the event in which MLK delivered his "I have a dream" speech, and he was essential for the civil rights movement. Martha P Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and historical figures like Sappho - all of these people were the builders of LGBTQIA+ rights and culture. Another one would be Alan Turing, who cracked the Enigma Code - a gay man who made a breakthrough in technology.
This year’s theme is Science and Innovation – what was your first reaction when you heard that?
Representing those who made sacrifices to contribute to innovating society to the point it is today should be celebrated, and it's a great starting point to recognise those in the LGBTQIA+ that allowed the world to exist the way it does today. As an LGBTQIA+ individual myself and someone interested in those topics, I found it very exciting to learn about some new role models.
Can you give an example of the challenges LGBTQIA+ students may face, particularly in education?
LGBTQIA+ students still face challenges outside of college that effect their learning. An example of this would be the discussion on whether transgender individuals should use the bathroom to their sex assigned at birth or not. Being afraid to go and use a toilet in a college can affect your learning - you'll be stressed, agitated, and probably take extra time going and finding a private bathroom. Furthermore, a lot of LGBTQIA+ students face bullying or fear of bullying, which is terrible and unacceptable. There are also challenges for people who want to exceed in certain subjects too, due to a lack of representation in them.
Why do you think representation and visibility at college really matters?
Representation and visibility in college is so important. It helps people to express themselves in the real world, as well as teaches others to be tolerant and understanding. Teaching that to people sooner than later can prevent hate crimes and LGBTQIA+ based violence and promotes a safer environment later on in life.
What does an inclusive college environment look like to you?
It has the right kinds of support for everyone. We should have the ability and space for everyone to have opinions, and share them in a safe, calm manner, where we can all exist in a space that feels safe. There should be no line between non-LGBTQ+ students and LGBTQ+ students, nor between any other discerning factors either, like sex, race or class.
For students or staff who want to be better LGBTQIA+ allies, what would you suggest?
Don’t be too pushy about offering support. Someone who is LGBTQIA+ might want to just get on with their life, and being overly supportive may make them uncomfortable. Attempt to learn about key historical figures and stay informed. Don't treat anyone different unless they ask that of you, just show support when needed, and vocalise that your friend group or your classroom is a safe space. Make sure that if you're able to speak up for those who can't, do so, and if possible, support an LGBTQ+ charity or wear a pride flag badge. Make sure you don't use any derogatory language, like slurs, or refer to something as "gay" when you really mean something else. Just be friendly.
If students would like to get support at college, what help can they get and what steps do they need to take?
Talk to your tutor. They'll chat with you and refer you to safeguarding and wellbeing, who will offer you a 1:1 meeting. If it isn't something they can solve, they'll refer you elsewhere, whether it be an external service or another member of the team. Support can come in all shapes and sizes, so they'll definitely be able to do something to help. Also, for minor issues that wouldn't require reporting, students can email me at 320201@student.nottinghamcollege.ac.uk or visit our Wellbeing Hub on StudentNet. In a medical crisis you should always call 111 or 999 and get help from there.
What advice do you have for LGBTQIA+ students that may feel isolated?
There are clubs throughout Nottingham College that students can join, so I'd recommend joining them! There's an LGBTQ+ Club at High Pavement and City Hub, and they're open to everyone. An individual feeling isolated can get support from the college, but if you do feel this way, I'd recommend going and telling a friend or someone you trust. Being able to get it off your chest always helps. Other than that, taking the main support routes through the college or externally are always good ideas, there are some great charities outside of college that can offer support too.
