Here, Queer and Sincere

I’m a bisexual, lesbian woman. This is an identity I’ve struggled to get my own head around, but labels are messy and can mean different things for different people.

I’ve previously had worries of not being part of the LGBT+ community. I’m in awe of the community and the ways in which individuals are so confident in their true selves and being proud of it. How could I possibly fit in? I’ve changed labels several times in my life, and was anxious that I would one day wake up, realise I’m straight, and feel like a fraud.

The PCS LGBT+ seminar changed all this for me.

Never before have I felt so involved in the LGBT+ community. Never before have I been so proud of my identity and never before have I been in a space where I feel unconditionally accepted by everyone in the room. Meeting other union members with their own experiences of being LGBT+ was inspiring.

The sessions at the seminar were inspiring, emotional and powerful. The workshop discussing sexual harassment at work was challenging as this is something I have experienced myself, but hearing members discuss ways to support others made me feel a lot better, and has improved my confidence on the issue. PCS Proud’s vice chair Saorsa Amatheia-Tweedale ran an incredible session explaining the legislation protecting trans, non-binary and intersex colleagues. It was empowering to learn about the legislative tools available to protect our members.

This community cares for and protects each other, and I am proud to be a part of it. Thank you for accepting me.