International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT)

The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) aims to raise awareness of the LGBT+ community and to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in our society. The LGBT+ Staff Network has organised a number of activities for all staff and students at Kent.

Monday 15 May:

An Introduction to Trans Awareness workshop:
12.30, Grimond Lecture Theatre 3
Provided by advocacy group Gendered Intelligence. This session will be particularly helpful for line managers.

This 90-minute session will set the wider context for Trans* identities – how sex, gender and sexual orientation interact. The workshop will:

  • Explore key terms and uses of language
  • Offer basic grounding in the legislation around the rights and responsibilities around trans identities; the Equalities Act 2010, Gender Recognition Act 2004
  • Begin to explore how an organisation can ensure it is being trans-inclusive
  • Provide links to a wide range of resources

Wednesday 17 May:

Take on the Pronoun Challenge!
The LGBT+ Staff Network challenges you to use non-gendered pronouns for the day! Help us raise awareness of the Trans* community by using non-gendered pronouns with colleagues for the day – if you slip up it’s 10p in the ‘swear jar’ – proceeds will go to Trans* support charity Mermaids UK.

LGBT+ on the plaza
The LGBT+ Staff Network and Student Society (Kent Union) will also be hosting a stall on Jarman Plaza 12-2pm on 17 May to promote LGBT/straight alliance and to give information and advice about sources of support and upcoming activities. Come along and see us!

Wear the Rainbow!
Student Services at Medway invite staff and students to join us in celebrating IDAHOT by wearing colourful clothing for the day and donating to support METRO Charity – a local charity supporting LGBTQ+ young people in Medway, and across London and Kent.

Donation boxes will be at the Gillingham Building and Medway Building reception desks and room G0-05, and also at The Deep End Front Social Space in the Student Hub where, from 10am-2pm there will also be a stall with information and goodies!

LGBT+ Staff Network social
Join colleagues for an informal drink after work from 5.15pm on Wednesday 17 May in the Gulbenkian. All are welcome, including guests/partners.

Email lgbtstaffnetwork@kent.ac.uk to find out more, or visit our blog.