It's August and we're once again celebrating CHFT's Pride Month, which recognises and champions our LGBT+ colleagues, patients, and communities. Pride is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, reflect on the progress that has been made, and acknowledge the ongoing work needed to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
It also gives us an opportunity to listen to and learn from the experiences of our LGBT+ colleagues, while celebrating their strength, resilience and authenticity that enrich our organisation every day.
Governance and Risk Support Officer, Jai Szostak (they/them), has shared their very personal Pride story with us.
“Life is rarely a smooth road with no ditches to dodge or mountains to climb.
"I have always supported LGBT+ individuals and admired their boldness and authenticity – however, when it came to myself, my own sexuality and gender brought waves of confusion and shame. I wanted to be straight, I wanted to be cis. I felt as though I had done something wrong or perhaps been cursed for some unknown slight. Although I supported the community and had many LGBT+ friends, I couldn’t help but feel burdened by who I am and mourn what I thought I had lost.
"I have come out twice, once for my sexuality, around the age of 14, and a second time regarding my gender identity, at the age of 20. Both times, before I came out, the anxiety was overwhelming. I had considered and accepted the worst outcomes and planned for them. Thankfully, I was fortunate enough to be accepted by my friends and family both times with open arms. Their support has been invaluable.
"Throughout life, LGBT+ individuals have been presented to me in a negative light. In the worst case, being LGBT+ was seen as morally corrupt, unnatural, a shameful illness. In the best case, it was seen as a barrier for employment, healthcare, and a target on your back, to disclose only in a safe setting with trusted individuals.
"Despite this, I know that there is value in who I am, and I am proud of the person I have grown to be. I am lucky enough to have a work team that embrace my differences and ensure I am treated equally, as any one of us would wish to be. I would thank them for the effort they continue to make – they may not get it right every time (as is human) but every time they do, I can’t help but smile at the warmth and acceptance they bring.
"I am thankful every day for the people who support and accept me for who I am. Pride month is about asking what more can I do right now to help support those around me. It is about finding our community, cherishing one another, and raising each other up. It is about being unapologetic and cheerful in the face of hate, bigotry, and violence.
"I wish all my colleagues a happy Pride Month and hope that everyone can take some time, however long or short, to celebrate their pride in themselves, and in those they know.”
Supporting Pride at CHFT
Stories like Jai's remind us of the importance of creating workplaces where everyone feels able to be themselves. While Pride is a celebration, it's also an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue to support one another through allyship, kindness and inclusion.
One way to get involved is by attending our Pride Parade, which leaves the Main Entrance at HRI on Friday, 21st August at midday. All colleagues are welcome to attend and show their support. Let's come together to show support, celebrate diversity and inclusion, and demonstrate our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The parade will end with time to reflect and share celebrations in the Wellbeing Garden.
Whether you identify as LGBT+, or as an ally, we encourage everyone across CHFT to take part in Pride Month, learn more about the experiences of others, and celebrate the diversity that makes our organisation stronger.
