School Lane SurgeryHappy Pride Month! At School Lane Surgery, we stand with the LGBTQIA+ community and believe in fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all our patients, staff, and everyone in our community.
Pride Month is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and the progress made since the Stonewall Riots of 1969. Despite progress, many LGBT people still face discrimination, stigma, and difficulty accessing not only healthcare but in many aspects of their lives.
The LGBTQIA+ Acronym: What does it mean?
The original acronym ‘LGBT’ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) began to gain prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. As awareness and understanding of the diversity within the community grew over the years, additional letters were added to be more inclusive. Today LGBT has evolved into LGBTQIA+, encompassing a diverse range of sexual orientations and gender identities. Here’s a breakdown of what each letter represents:
- Lesbian: Women attracted to other women.
- Gay: Refers to individuals attracted to the same sex (typically used for men, but can be more general).
- Bisexual: Individuals attracted to both their own and other genders.
- Transgender: Individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
- Queer or Questioning: “Queer” is an umbrella term for non-heterosexual identities, and “Questioning” refers to those exploring their identity.
- Intersex: Refers to individuals born with physical sex characteristics that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female.
- Asexual, Aromantic, or Agender: “Asexual” refers to individuals with little or no sexual attraction, “Aromantic” refers to a lack of romantic attraction, and “Agender” refers to those who identify with no gender.
- “+” symbol includes other identities like Pansexual, Genderqueer, and more.
The evolution of this acronym reflects the community’s commitment to inclusivity.
At School Lane Surgery, We Celebrate You!
We recognise the unique health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and strive to create a welcoming space where everyone feels safe, respected, and receives the care and support they deserve.
Additional Resources and Support
For those seeking additional resources and support, here are some fantastic LGBTQIA+ organisations:
Norfolk LGBTQ+ Project: Supports hundreds of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary people across Norfolk.
Norfolk MIND LGBTQIA+: Mental health resources for people who identify as LGBTQIA+
AKT: LGBTQIA+ youth are significantly more likely to experience homelessness. Organisations like AKT provide crucial support for young people aged 16-25 who are facing these challenges.
- Link: www.akt.org.uk
GALOP: Many LGBTQIA+ individuals face abuse and violence because of their identity.is dedicated to supporting those who have experienced such trauma.
- Link: www.galop.org.uk
Stonewall: Information and support for LGBTQIA+ people and their allies.
- Link: www.stonewall.org.uk
Terrence Higgins Trust: HIV and sexual health charity.
- Link: www.tht.org.uk
OUTpaitents: Offers advocacy and support for LGBTQIA+ people affected by cancer.
Mermaids: Support for gender diverse kids, young people, and their families.
- Link: www.mermaidsuk.org.uk
The Proud Trust: Support for LGBTQIA+ young people.
- Link: www.theproudtrust.org
Rainbow Migration: Support for LGBTQIA+ people through the asylum and immigration system.
This Pride Month, let’s champion a world where everyone thrives, free to express themselves and makes a positive difference to all in our community. Sexual orientation or gender identity is (a beautiful) part of you, but it’s not the whole story. It does not define a person but nor is it something you should hide.
Remember, be proud of who you are. At School Lane Surgery, we are proud of YOU!
Happy Pride Month from School Lane Surgery!