For LGBTQ+ and Queer people every day is a coming out day.

National Coming Out Day is an opportunity to continue to raise awareness for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, and champion the fact that Homophobia, Lesbophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia continue to thrive in silence. On this day, many people who identify as LGBTQ+ will “come out” and be proud in front of their friends or family about their sexuality or gender identity, which is a huge moment!

Growing up and living in a world designed by people who are straight or not trans means LGBTQ+ find themselves unrepresented in the mainstream media, in society and their history is often erased or unspoken. This impacts mental health, propagates stigmas, and leads to people feel shame and experience discrimination

In this interactive and engaging session, Joanne Lockwood speaks

about what you can do right now to step up and step in to being an effective workplace ally for LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers, especially for those who identify as Trans, Non-binary or Gender Diverse.

Joanne will discuss some of the challenges being faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and how these affect every aspect of daily life which include:

• Understanding the impact Cis and Hetero normativity has on LGBTQ+ people in terms of discrimination, hate crimes and microaggressions
• Recognise the pressure that LGBTQ+ people face to conform, the stereotypes they need to overcome, and the challenges they experience ‘coming out’ about their sexuality and/or gender identity.
• Learn how individuals and organisations can step up to become better LGBTQ+ allies in the workplace and society at large.

Following the presentation Joanne will be around for an open Q&A where you can challenge her with your thoughts or maybe event ask her for some ideas on how you can tackle your own challenges.