Lesbian Visibility Week aims to show our solidarity with all LGBTQIA+ women, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people in the queer community, as well as to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of the lesbian community. It is essential that Lesbian Visibility Week is a voice for unity and lifts up ALL women and femmes, especially those who come from marginalized communities. Recent research (Pride Matters survey, conducted by Pride In London 2018) has shown that lesbians are almost twice as unlikely to be out in the workplace as gay male colleagues.
There has been a Lesbian Visibility Day since 2008, marking this year the 14th Lesbian Visibility Week! Every April 26th, we celebrate Lesbian Visibility Day.
Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week allows us space to create a week that recognizes, celebrates, and most importantly, supports lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer women, femmes, and GNC (gender non-conforming) people.
Here are some ways to honor Lesbian Visibility Week this year provided by the official Lesbian Visibility Week website (https://www.lesbianvisibilityweek.com/):
Show your employees and customers that you are actively supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as part of your overall Diversity & Inclusion strategy.
Provide your company, organization, or education institution with an annual platform to actively and authentically support LGBTQIA+ women and femmes in your workplace.
Hold community gatherings and sharing circles concerning LGBTQIA+ issues.
Host a community fundraiser for a local or national organization that supports and funds LGBTQIA+ individuals.
One last impactful way to make a difference is to actively celebrate and honor the lesbian women and individuals in your life! Try learning more about the history of the lesbian and queer movement, educate yourself on modern legislation, and listen and advocate for queer people! Being an ally is perhaps the strongest and most impactful way to create a difference in your community!
