For those who may not know about these groups or would be interested in joining one, more information about their inspiring work, initiatives and events is available below.
The LGBT+ Staff Group is both a support network and a place to make change happen. It welcomes members of the LGBT+ community and allies to join, no matter what their situation or circumstance. They hold regular meetings as well as social events on and off the University campus.
Their mission is to champion inclusivity and diversity, provide support for LGBT+ staff, promote LGBT+ issues and reach solutions where possible, as well as ensure our institution is a safe environment.
The group has recently introduced their new Chair, Sam Chambers, who currently works in the Health and Safety team.
He said: “Having been at Loughborough for 18 months, being part of the LGBT+ Staff Group has been a big part of my time here. To be appointed Chair of the group is truly an honour and I hope to keep the good work of the group going and ensure that all staff and students feel Loughborough is a positive place for LGBT+ individuals.
“Even though we are unable to hold our annual Pride march this month, we are delighted to be supporting the Albert Kennedy Trust – an LGBT+ youth homelessness charity working with those who are experiencing homelessness or living in a hostile environment – with their 2.6 Challenge on 26 June.”
Third-year Psychology student Eva Go has been announced as this year’s Chair of the LGBT+ Association and Loughborough Students’ Union’s LGBT+ Officer.
The LGBT+ Association welcomes all students at Loughborough University who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and any other denomination of sexuality and gender. The group’s aim is to provide LGBT+ students with a safe and welcoming space where they can freely express themselves and socialise.
The committee works directly with the University to establish policies that ensure equality and inclusivity on campus and organise events that are open to the public as well.
The Association is pleased to announce they are now accepting applications for their committee positions. There are roles including Vice Chair, Trans Officer, Health and Wellbeing Officer, Events Manager and Sports Officer. More information on how to apply for these roles can be found here.
Eva commented: “Pride Month has been celebrated with a march around our Loughborough campus for the past five years, but sadly due to COVID-19 and social distancing still in place, things are a little different this year.
“The LGBT+ Association and the LGBT+ Staff Group are working together to organise a virtual way to commemorate Pride, and we will be sharing details in due course. Our student LGBT+ community can stay up to date with what events are on throughout the year and continue to engage with us through our Facebook and Instagram pages.”
If you’re interested in donating to the Albert Kennedy Trust this month, more information about the Challenge can be found here.