In our series of articles, we discuss topical issues facing the legal industry all through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion (D, E & I). This month’s article focuses on our LGBTQ+ community as we celebrate Pride month.
Pride Month, observed from June 1st to June 30th every year, holds deep significance in commemorating the historical roots of the LGBTQ+ community's struggle for equality and recognition. The Stonewall Riots of June 1969 marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring a global movement that continues to shape our societies today. As we approach this significant month, it is crucial to reflect on the journey, celebrate the achievements, and advocate for further progress in fostering diversity and inclusion in the legal industry.
The Stonewall Riots: A Defining Moment
On June 28th, 1969, the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York City, became the epicentre of a pivotal event in LGBTQ+ history. Following a routine police raid, the community bravely fought back, sparking the Stonewall Riots and igniting a movement that reverberated globally. This courageous act laid the foundation for the formation of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and set the stage for a monumental shift in the fight for equal rights. Two British activists, Aubrey Walter and Bob Mellor travelled to the US and attended the Black Panther’s Revolutionary People’s Convention.
Historical Discriminations and Ongoing Challenges
Before the Stonewall Riots, the LGBTQ+ community faced systemic discrimination, including forced arrests and hospitalizations, denial of basic civil rights, and criminalization of same-sex relationships. Despite significant progress, challenges persist, with some regions still grappling with legal restrictions on same-sex relationships.
Contemporary Impact of Pride
In the UK, Pride events have evolved into an integral part of the national calendar, with large cities and regional communities embracing and celebrating diversity. Despite recent disruptions caused by the global pandemic, the resilient spirit of Pride perseveres, with events such as London's Pride march drawing substantial attendance, exemplifying the enduring significance of this movement.
Key legal Milestones for the LGBTQ+ Community
In England and Wales, homosexuality was decriminalised through the Sexual Offences Act 1967. Legalisation came into effect in Scotland in 1981 after the 1980 Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act.
The extension of Sex Discrimination to include gender reassignment meant that in 1996 it was ruled that it is unfair to dismiss an employee based on gender reassignment. In 1999 the Government introduced the Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations extending the 1975 Act to cover discrimination of gender reassignment in employment and vocational training.
The Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into force in December 2005 in the U.K, then Scotland voted for this Act to be legislated in Scotland as well. This means that same-sex couples have official and legal recognition of their relationship.
In 2010 the Government put in place the Equality Act 2010 covering 9 protected characteristics.
In England and Wales, the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 was passed on 17 July and the first marriage of a same-sex couple took place on 29 March 2014.
In Scotland the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 allowed same-sex couples to marry. This means that in Scotland same-sex couples have a choice between marriage and civil partnership.
In 2019, Taiwan became the first country in Asia to allow same-sex marriages.
As of 2024, the marriage of same-sex couples is legally performed and recognised in 37 countries.
On 15 February 2024 Greece’s Parliament voted to legalise same-sex marriage, becoming the first Christian Orthodox majority country to do so, and on 18 June 2024, Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to follow.
Benefits of LGBTQ+ Inclusive Leadership
In the workplace, embracing LGBTQ+ inclusive leadership offers numerous advantages:
Enhanced employee well-being and job satisfaction
Fostering a positive work environment, stimulating productivity and creativity
Promotion of diversity and representation
Encouragement of open communication among employees.
Our LGBTQ+ community in law
Statistics demonstrate progress towards LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the legal profession. A recent survey revealed that a majority of LGBTQ+ respondents felt able to be themselves at work - with 53% saying they felt themselves always. The Law Society of Scotland’s diversity data (2022/23) revealed that, as a whole, at least 4% of the Scottish legal profession identify as LGBTQ+ while those aged under 30 are just below 7%. To confirm this, the Solicitors Regulatory Authority collected data from all SRA regulated firms in summer 2023 and identified that, although slow, there has been growth in lawyers who identify as lesbian, gay or bi-sexual from 3% in 2015 to 4.4% in 2023. This shows a move towards better representation amongst younger solicitors but may also show an intergenerational divide.
The Imperative of Strong Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Practices
A robust commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the legal industry yields multifaceted benefits:
Access to a more extensive and inclusive talent pool
Improved financial performance by diverse workplace teams
Fostering a sense of belonging for employees resulting in healthier workplaces
Three Tips for creating a more inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ colleagues in the legal profession
1 - Engage
Engage with LGBTQ+ employee network groups, both internally (where applicable) and externally. These networks enhance diversity, experience and knowledge sharing, encourage allyship, and contribute to a more inclusive legal environment.
2 - Communicate
Communicate support through internal channels. Share your commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion in all-staff communications, such as intranet blogs or internal newsletters. This will help demonstrate visible leadership support for LGBTQ+ colleagues.
3 - Integrate
Incorporate LGBTQ+ support in new staff induction. Integrating messages of support for LGBTQ+ employees in new staff induction and training materials sets clear expectations and reassures new employees about your inclusive culture.
As we honour Pride Month, let's recommit ourselves to championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace, acknowledging the progress made and recognizing the work that lies ahead. By fostering an inclusive environment, we not only elevate our workplaces but also contribute to a more just and equitable society for all.
Diversity+ specialises in helping businesses develop their DE&I strategies through bespoke programmes. Reach out for a consultation call today.