This month is LGBTQ+ History Month. This year’s theme is ‘Behind the lens’.The theme ‘Behind the lens’ highlights the hard work and numerous contributions made by people of the LGBTQ+ community to the production of film and TV programs. Across the month, we will be sharing content around this year’s theme and celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender achievements throughout history.
At hap, we pride ourselves on being inclusive of everyone and producing a positive workplace for everyone onsite and at our hap HQ. In honour of LGBTQ+ History Month, some of our HQ staff reflect on LGBTQ+ life and experiences both at hap and in their personal lives:Â
Joe: I’ve found that a lot of people don’t know a lot about LGBTQ+ icons who have paved the way for us in the future. Alan Turing, for example (you must google him as he plays a huge part in how we can even google stuff), has mostly gone ignored for such a long time. LGBTQ+ History Month is so very important as it shines a light on these amazing people who sacrificed themselves for the greater good. When I was younger, I didn’t think I could amount to anything because I knew I was gay. However, I have been fortunate enough to grow up in Manchester, which is a very accepting city that celebrates individuality. Working for hap Solutions Group has been great, as you aren’t treated differently because of who you are. You are all going in to work at the end of the day, and we are all treated as equals.
Aaron: To me, LGBTQ+ history month is an opportunity to look back and pay tribute to the people who fought for equal rights in and out of the workplace. Unfortunately, it isn’t a part of ancient history, and this prejudice continues to dull people’s potential at home and around the world. Although this shouldn’t be the case, I consider myself lucky to live and work in such an accepting city, in which the community is easily accessible and, most importantly, visible. My experience at hap is one of open arms; they cultivate people’s potential, regardless of label or image, which hasn’t always been the case for me.Â
To learn more about LGBT+ History Month, visit the LGBT Foundation website. Follow our socials to see the content we put out around LGBTQ+ History Month!
