Guide to pride series

Pride is ultimately a celebration of LGBTQ+ individuals and their lives, the wider community and inclusion. 

Pride and the wider LGBTQ+ rights movement has been taking place since the Stonewall Riots in 1969. More than 50 years later, LGBTQ+ Pride is marked with parades and alike, all across the world; to celebrate the progress that has been made, but also to highlight the inequality that still exists and to draw attention to the issues that the different communities currently face.

Inclusion and diversity in our people is extremely important to us and Pride is a good opportunity to celebrate with our colleagues and show our support to the LGBTQ+ community.  We are committed to ensuring we offer a respectful and inclusive workplace culture, where everyone can be their true self in the workplace.

As we cannot celebrate Pride in the usual way this year, it is important that we continue to raise awareness and show our support. Our support to LGBTQ+ inclusion comes from within – our colleagues. This year, members of our LGBTQ+ and Allies Committee have shared their thoughts and personal experiences via our Guide to Pride series, which comprises of three separate podcasts covering some interesting topics.

We invite you to listen to our podcasts individually by topic below, or all at once here. 

Alternatively, you read the transcript of the entire podcast here.

Generational Challenges

In this podcast, the speakers discuss the different generational challenges and share their personal stories about coming out, the challenges faced and treatment they experienced.  They also share some key words of wisdom and advice.

Allyship

In this podcast the speakers, including Head of our LGBTQ+ Allies Network, explain the importance of being an ally and how we can each improve as allies to show more support to colleagues, friends and/or clients. They discuss the renowned positive impact allyship can have on personal experiences and on creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable to be themselves.

Guide to Pride

In this podcast, the speakers discuss Pride and the parades that take place across the world – colourful outdoor celebrations which usually include a march and are attended by thousands. They also discuss UK Black Pride as its own celebration and share experiences and insight as to what you can expect if you would like to attend and show your support at Pride and/or Black Pride in future years.

Thank you to our host, Real Estate Disputes Partner, Emma Humphreys and speakers for taking part in this initiative – Samuel Lear (Associate, Real Estate Disputes), Beatrice Adu (Conveyancing Executive, Real Estate), Richard Honey (Associate, Private Client) and special guest Annie Southerst, Trustee and Ambassador from Opening Doors London.

Opening Doors London (ODL) provide information and support services for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT+) people over the age of 50 in the UK. They work hard to ensure that their members live fun, full and respected lives, free from discrimination, prejudice and loneliness.

My First Pride

Last year five members of Opening Doors shared memories of their first Pride.  Listen to their stories below.

Celebratory Quiz and Virtual Drinks Evening

We invited members of the Firm and their family and friends to celebrate Pride month by putting their LGBTQ+ language and knowledge to the test in a fun quiz hosted by the Firm’s LGBTQ+ Committee, followed by some virtual networking drinks.  Everyone had a great time and the winners were thrilled to receive their colourful prizes!