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<\/a><\/p>\nYour coming out story…<\/div>\n
I knew I was gay when I was about 13 but at that time LGBT people were not accepted in society.<\/p>\n
I did not come out until I was about 29 and didn\u2019t really tell many people as the few people I told initially were very negative.<\/p>\n
One person sent me a bible with marked sections that they suggested I read.<\/p>\n
Difficult times.<\/p><\/div>\n
Did you have any LGBT+ role models growing up? Who were they and why?<\/div>\n
No none at all.<\/div>\n
Have you suffered prejudice in your job or personal life and, if so, can you describe what effects it had on you?<\/div>\n
Quite a bit in the 1980s and 1990s; I had my house graffitied, there was name calling and eggs thrown at my door, but none for about 10 years until very recently.<\/p>\n
The law is clear now and I have found the police supportive.<\/p><\/div>\n
What would you say to those who may be facing difficulties regarding their LGBT+ status at work?<\/div>\n
Talk to colleagues, society members, or friends and family if you can, and if it\u2019s happening at work your line manager.<\/div>\n
What can we all do to make University of Kent a better place for being an LGBT+ member of staff?<\/div>\n
Stand up for LGBT+ rights, support each other and promote equality.<\/div>\n
What do you think of being LGBT+ in Kent?<\/div>\n
I think Kent is a LGBT+ friendly place with some groups and activities to join, always room for improvement.<\/div>\n
Why do you want to be an LGBT+ role model? Why is it important?<\/div>\n
I am happy to be a role model as I want to support LGBT+ within the university and promote and join into activities.<\/p>\n
I am happy to be contacted by anyone to chat over possible issues or talk about ideas they may have for our society.<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Student Mentor, Student Support & Wellbeing Student Services Your coming out story… I knew I was gay when I was about 13 but at that time LGBT people were not accepted in society. I did not come out until I … Continue reading