Lesbian Day of Visibility - solidarity, support and love
Rose wishes PCS members a happy lesbian visibility day and week.
This day is monumental in giving us the opportunity to celebrate those who identify as lesbian, and embrace the wonders that can be being out, proud and yourself.
I’ve not identified as a lesbian for very long. In fact, I’m a woman who was in a relationship with a man for 2 years and thought I was bisexual. However, I’ve come to realise that sexuality and labels are fluid for me, and I’m now happily in a relationship with a woman and falling in love with her came so easily for me.
My sexuality hasn’t played a huge role in my trade union activism but I believe it should. After all, I’ve been subject to homophobia, as well as heteronormativity at work from those who assume my partner is a man. I hope that by writing this blog, this gives me a level of visibility to those who may be struggling with homophobia in their own lives, to know that you are not alone and I am here if you want support. I am happy to be contacted by any members, so feel free to email me via Proud at proud@pcs.org.uk.
Intersectionality can play a role in the experiences of lesbians and the varying challenges they may face. While I have faced some challenges and discrimination for my sexuality, I am a cisgender white lesbian, so I am privileged in many ways. Trans and non-binary lesbians, as well as lesbians of colour are more likely to experience additional discrimination and challenges, so it is important we foster a welcoming community within our trade union so we know they have our support.
The PCS Proud national committee (PNC) has 3 other members who identify as lesbian (as well as me) and here is what they had to say about Lesbian Visibility Day:
“For me LVD means lifting each other up, being proud of our success, but above all sharing the love and warmth of our unbreakable, inclusive, sisterhood.” Saorsa, PNC chair.
“In a word, LVD represents solidarity; a community-wide comradery acknowledging and celebrating all lesbians, regardless of our differences. It is an expression of our love, support, and acceptance of each other.” Heledd, PNC disability rep.
“For me LVD is about celebrating myself, my fellow lesbian comrades and the community that we've forged together in solidarity.” Finn, PNC trans rep.
Bridget Corcoran, Proud NEC liaison officer said: “LVD means a lot for us older lesbians to have a day to celebrate our visibility. In our youth, society wanted invisibility.
PCS is always at the heart of demanding changes that society needs. I’m proud to be a lesbian union activist fighting for rights in a union deeply committed to equality for all.”
Solidarity to all lesbians, and may you find joy in being your true selves!
We in PCS Proud welcome anyone who identifies as LGBT+ into our community. If you’d like to know more about Lesbian Visibility Day, or PCS Proud in general, you can contact us at proud@pcs.org.uk.