EGGS, Part of Sopra Steria’s Post

As the Olympics approach and the world gathers to watch athletes represent their countries, we reflect on how many LGBTQ+ athletes face additional challenges. While the USWNT is full of soccer players who are out, not all sports have been accepting of individuals' identities. Last week, Campbell Harrison became the first out LGBTQ sport climber to qualify for the Olympics. He finished what should have been a joyful victory and kissed his partner, only to be bombarded with homophobic slurs. While 70% of Americans support marriage equality, including nearly half of Republicans (Citation: Human Rights Campaign), Harrison faced extreme backlash and commentary. This is compounded by the banning of transgender athletes such as CeCé Telfer and Lia Thomas from competing in their gender identity categories. USA Track and Field, World Athletics, and World Aquatics have created trans-exclusionary policies. Even if athletes overcome the policies designed to keep them from competition, personal hurdles and online harassment make it difficult to focus and compete. If the spirit of the Olympics is to “build a better world through sport,” how do we expect to do so if we are excluding people from that vision? #LGBTQ #Olympics #Pride #Inclusion #DEI

Men's football has an LGBTQ+ problem. Too many people are excluded from enjoying it. But we can solve it. And here's the first step. This week, on Out and Out Football, we're launching a survey for LGBTQ+ people to share their experiences on football. The first step in working out how to solve a problem is properly understanding the problem. By taking part in the short survey, you'll be playing a fundamental part in changing football. So to any LGBTQ+ people in my network – whether you're into football or not – will you have your say by taking part in the survey now? https://lnkd.in/exwBDpUE

🌈 While we still have work to do queer rights have come a long way since the Stonewall Riots in 1969, these are some of the key legal milestones in the journey for #QueerRights. 1️⃣ Stonewall Riots (1969): A turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, sparking widespread activism. 2️⃣ Decriminalization of Homosexuality (2003, USA): Lawrence v. Texas case led to the landmark decision to decriminalize homosexuality. 3️⃣ Marriage Equality (2015, USA): A historic moment when the Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality in Obergefell v. Hodges. 4️⃣ Transgender Military Ban Lifted (2021, USA): A win for transgender rights, allowing all qualified Americans to serve their country in the military. 💬Today we honor the courage and determination of those who fought for these achievements, and continue to push for equality and acceptance in all aspects of life. #Pride2024 #LGBTQRights #Inclusion #diversity

Happy Pride Month to all! For some answers about Pride Month, see the link below to learn about these topics and more: 1. What is LGBTQ Pride Month? 2. When was the rainbow Pride flag created? 3. What are the Stonewall riots? #PrideMonth https://lnkd.in/eXpyreRw

Bayard Rustin was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, known for his strategic brilliance and commitment to nonviolent protest. As an organizer, he played a crucial role in the planning of the 1963 March on Washington, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. Rustin’s emphasis on grassroots activism and coalition-building helped unify various factions within the movement, promoting the importance of solidarity among different groups fighting for social justice. Despite his significant contributions, Rustin faced discrimination not only for his race but also for his openly gay identity, which often led to him being marginalized within the movement. In addition to his civil rights work, Rustin was a pioneering advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He challenged the intersections of race, sexuality, and social justice, arguing that the fight for civil rights should include the rights of sexual minorities. Rustin's openness about his sexuality, especially in an era when being gay was heavily stigmatized, helped pave the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ activists. His dual legacy as both a civil rights leader and an advocate for LGBTQ+ equality continues to inspire movements today, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the fight for social justice. #BayardRustin #CivilRights #LGBTQRights #SocialJustice #MarchOnWashington #NonviolentProtest #intersectionality #EqualityForAll #BlackHistory #LGBTQActivism #Pride #HumanRights #AdvocateForChange #UnityInDiversity #HistoricalFigures #QueerHistory #JusticeForAll #CivilRightsIcon #Empowerment

🌟 Day 3: Honoring Black Queer Pioneers: Foundations of Our Fight 🌟 Today, we honor the incredible Black queer pioneers who have been instrumental in both the civil rights and LGBTQ+ movements. From Marsha P. Johnson's fearless activism during the Stonewall Riots to Bayard Rustin's strategic brilliance in organizing the 1963 March on Washington, and James Baldwin's eloquent critiques of race and sexuality—these trailblazers have paved the way for the freedoms we cherish today. 🔍 Key Highlights: Marsha P. Johnson: Co-founder of the Gay Liberation Front and STAR, advocating for homeless LGBTQ+ youth and sex workers. Bayard Rustin: Close advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and key organizer of the historic 1963 March on Washington. James Baldwin: Brilliant writer and social critic whose works like "The Fire Next Time" challenged racism and homophobia, fostering greater empathy and understanding. Their legacies remind us that our liberation is deeply intertwined, and their bravery continues to inspire our fight for justice and equality. Quote of the day: "History is not the past. It is the present. We carry our history with us. We are our history." – James Baldwin 📖 Read more and join the conversation on my Substack newsletter In solidarity and empowerment, Desireé B Stephens #Pride #Juneteenth #BlackQueerPioneers #Intersectionality #CivilRights #LGBTQ #SocialJustice #CommunityBuilding #Liberation #EquityInEducation

June is a month of vibrancy, love and solidarity as we continue to celebrate Gay Pride Month. It is not just a celebration, it’s a statement of resilience and a demand for equality and a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility and representation. It’s a month dedicated to honouring the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting on the progress made towards equality, to raise awareness about the issues faced and unfortunately still acknowledging the work that’s still needs to be done. Here’s some ways to show your support: Learn the History: Educate yourself and others to promote understanding and acceptance Be an Ally: Show your support in everyday by using inclusive language, standing up against discrimination and be a safe person for LGBTQ+ individuals to talk to. Attend Pride Events: Participate in local Pride parades, festivals, and events. These celebrations often include marches, performances and speeches Display Symbols of Pride: Wear or display symbols such as rainbow flags, pins or clothing to show your support. Voice your Support: This could involve contacting your representatives about relevant legislation, participating in peaceful protests or using social media to raise awareness. Donate: Contribute to organisations that work on important issues like healthcare, housing, legal rights and support services Let us embrace the spirit of Pride this June and every day, striving for a future where love and equality triumph over prejudice and hate. #PrideMonth #LoveIsLove #LGBTQIA #Pride2024 #Equality #LGBTQCommunity #Diversity #Inclusivity #Support #Rights #Educate #Celebrate #TheWorldIsYourOyster

When it comes to trans inclusion in sports, one conclusion is given, that sports are inherently unfair. In our latest Up For Discussion episode, we are joined by Alan Lang (he/him) Lang, the co-chair for GAY GAMES 11 HONG KONG 2023, to discuss LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. With the Olympics ending and Paralympics just beginning, it is prudent to discuss this topic. Alan shares how systemic issues like unequal access to resources and training and the inherent variations and advantageous characteristics within the human body are also sources of unfairness. And in fact, it is unfair to exclude a certain group of people from sports. Check out the podcast to hear his insights and takeaways: https://ow.ly/Zx1m50SXpXs

ICYMI: upEND Movement's Reflections on Pride 2024 "As 2024 Pride comes to an end, it is impossible to ignore all of the ways U.S. policy –here and abroad– continues to make the world unsafe for LGBTQ people, especially those who exist along the margins of other oppression. For exactly these reasons, upEND is committed to developing abolitionist solutions and alternatives that create a better, safer world for all." https://lnkd.in/gtfEdTqt 

GAY WHALES AGAINST RACISM 🐋 We've been going through our badge collection again! Badges like these have long been symbols of community identity, unity, and solidarity. The "Gay Whales Against Racism" badge, created by the Anti-Nzi League in 1981, humorously connected LGBTQ+ rights with the environmental "Save the Whales" movement. During this time, groups like the Anti-Nzi League and the Black Lesbian and Gay Centre fought for visibility for queer Black people and people of colour, emphasising solidarity against racialised homophobia. The statement "Gay Whales Against Racism" was born as a symbol of interconnected struggles, and remains relevant today. Do you recognise any of these badges? – Alt Text: The image shows four circular badges, each featuring designs and text related LGBTQ+ rights. 1. Top left badge: Support the miner's fight for jobs is written in bold white text on a bright red badge. 2. Top right badge: I *heart* the condoms is written in black text in the centre of a pale pink badge. The heart is the classic Terrence Higgins Trust red heart with an arrow pointing towards the heart's centre. 3. Bottom left badge: A round white badge with a black whale illustration. Round the edge of the badge 'GAY WHALES AGAINST RACISM' is written in bold red text. 4. Bottom right badge: LICK BUSH IN 88' is written in bold white text in the centre of a bright red badge. The badges are arranged on a light pink background. – Image From Queer Britain. Badges donated by Lord Michael Cashman. – #queerbritain #lgbtq #lesbian #gay #bisexual #trans #queer