LGBT History Month: staff and student memo article
Conveying on behalf of staff and student contributors, thank you.
Kathryn Herschell (they/she), E&D Awards Advisor, EDI Team:
As colleagues with more than 15 years between us, it’s fascinating to talk with Sofia about the similarities and differences in our experiences. Having both grown up in communities that weren’t particularly friendly to LGBTQI+ people, we both found ourselves in the supportive environment of the University of St Andrews, where being our true selves is not just accepted, it’s actively encouraged and celebrated.
During LGBT+ History Month, it feels important to me to reflect on our recent past. Section 28 was in place when I was at school, and I carried the sense of shame and ‘othering’ that prevented my identity from being properly recognised and openly spoken about for a long time after. Our recent past reminds us that our rights haven’t always been a given. We, and our allies, must keep advocating and defending the rights of LGBTQI+ people, particularly trans youth, those who live under threat of violence, and those who face additional challenges due to issues such as ableism, racism, societal stigmatisation and intolerance.
Our beautiful, diverse community stands on the shoulders of those who came before us, and we are fighting for the rights of those who’ll come after us. LGBTQI+ people have always existed, and every one of us deserves to live without fear or prejudice.
Sofia Johnson (she/her), Saints LGBT+ Society President (2022/23):
LGBT+ History Month is such an important time for reflection. As Kathryn mentions, it feels important to acknowledge our recent past. In 2022, conversion therapy was banned in the United Kingdom except for Transgender people. Many US states are introducing laws that will outright ban Transgender people under the guise of “banning crossdressing”. While we have come extremely far regarding LGBTQI+ rights in such a short time, the fight isn’t over. I believe in visibility being one of the most effective forms of education and inspiration. When I was a closeted trans teenager, I drew so much inspiration from the brave Transgender women who had a platform. It made me believe that I could be as happy and as beautiful as them one day. Now here I am, I am the girl that 16-year-old me could only dream of becoming.
St. Andrews’ LGBTQI+ community was the best place I could have transitioned. I was so welcomed by everyone and there was a loving warmth that allowed me to bloom.
I have so much gratitude to the LGBTQI+ activists that came before me. To the black trans women who fought and fought for our right to live as our true selves. To the people who suffered loss throughout the AIDs pandemic and still soldiered on. To every LGBTQI+ person who came before me, thank you.