It’s great to have a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ inclusion on days of significance, but we don’t cease to exist once the day ends. We should think of awareness days as a springboard to take action because diversity and inclusion, and being an ally, are all ongoing commitments. 

First up, why – in your opinion – are days against discrimination like IDAHOBIT still important?

Unfortunately, we’re still facing discrimination, so these days are important for public awareness. They also allow us to start conversations around topics that may be hard to discuss otherwise. 

Being a part of workplace that acknowledged IDAHOBIT (the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination) made it easier for me to come out at work, for example.  

What does effective and impactful LGBTQIA+ inclusion look like to you?

Impactful inclusion means that we have conversations about LGBTQIA+ inclusion throughout the entire year, not just during Pride Month or on days like May 17. 

It’s great to have a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ inclusion on days of significance, but we don’t cease to exist once the day ends. We should think of awareness days as a springboard to take action because diversity and inclusion, and being an ally, are all ongoing commitments. 

Can you tell us about an instance when someone was an effective ally to you, and how it made you feel?

I feel seen when people use my pronouns. Find out more about using pronouns confidently in the workplace here

It’s important to be an ally, even when you’re a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. In what ways are you an ally to other communities?

I’ve been signing petitions, fundraising and protesting to support Palestine. 

What is your top tip for someone just starting out in their LGBTQIA+ allyship or inclusion journey?

Learn more about queer history. An easy way to do this is by consuming queer media. Documentaries like Disclosure and Paris is Burning are a great place to start. 

You could then branch out to shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race or The L Word to get your fix of contemporary queer history. 

IDAHOBIT is championed by Minus18, Australia’s charity improving the lives of LGBTQIA+ youth. It’s a challenging time for many young people – do you have a message of support for the queer youth of Australia?

My message to queer youth is: I am so proud of you. You are our future! 

Is there a particular way you’ll be celebrating IDAHOBIT this year?

I’ll be sure to be extra queer on the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination this year.

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