GUEST COLUMN:
Sharon James Evans
Principal
Cardiff and Vale College
Every February, LGBTQ+ History Month gives us a moment to celebrate identity, honour our shared history, and reaffirm the values that define us as a college and as a community.
For me, as a gay woman and as Principal of Cardiff and Vale College, this month is deeply personal and inspiring. It reminds us of how far we’ve come, the strength we hold collectively, and the bright future we continue to build together where every person can live openly, safely and proudly.
This year’s theme of activism and social change feels especially energising. Around the world, LGBTQ+ communities continue to show extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of rising challenges. Even as harmful rhetoric and legislation emerge in places like the United States, we also see powerful movements of solidarity, advocacy and hope. Here in the UK, we know that transphobic hate crimes have increased in recent years, but we also know that visibility, allyship and education are stronger than ever. Behind every statistic is a person deserving of dignity, respect and joy – and that is exactly why LGBTQ+ History Month matters.
It is a time to celebrate identity and community, yes, but also a time to confront the realities that too many still face. Studies show that LGBTQ+ people are more than twice as likely to experience a mental health condition compared to heterosexual and cisgender people. That is simply not fair or acceptable, and it is why we work so hard to ensure that Cardiff and Vale College is a place where everyone feels seen, supported and valued.
Throughout February, our college has been hosting a programme of events designed to increase the visibility of LGBTQ+ people, their history, and their lived experiences. From musical performances and creative workshops to wellbeing sessions and mental health awareness activities, each event is an opportunity to learn, connect and celebrate.
Our LGBTQ+ Staff Network continues to flourish and has quickly become a safe space for colleagues to share experiences, support one another and build friendships across departments. As Emma McLoughlin, our Deputy Head of Widening Participation and a member of the Network, put it: “LGBTQ+ History Month is an important moment in time to unite. Diversity, inclusion, and community are core values at the very heart of our college.” She’s right. These values are not slogans for us – they are the foundation of our culture.
Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in the recognition we’ve earned. Cardiff and Vale College holds the prestigious Leaders in Diversity status, we are previous winners of the AoC Beacon Award for Equality and Inclusion, and we hold a WorldSkills UK Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador Award. We are also ranked second on the NCFD’s Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces – a list that spans every sector, from banks to charities to major UK employers. These achievements matter because they show that our values are not just words; they are actions.
And action is exactly what this moment demands. Research from Stonewall shows that three‑quarters of LGBTQ+ workers want to work for organisations that actively support inclusion. Yet nearly half have experienced unwanted comments or undermining behaviour at work, and one in five have considered leaving their job due to a lack of LGBTQ+ inclusion. This is why visibility, allyship and advocacy remain so important.
The fight for trans rights, in particular, is a fight for human rights. It echoes the same ideals that have driven movements for racial justice, women’s rights and disability rights: autonomy, dignity, safety and the freedom to live without fear. When trans rights are attacked, it is not only a trans issue – it is a human issue. Silence in the face of discrimination allows oppression to grow unchecked. Martin Niemöller’s famous warning—“First they came…” – reminds us that failing to speak out when others are targeted ultimately leaves no one to defend us when we become the target.
At Cardiff and Vale College, we are proud to represent one of the most vibrant and diverse communities in Wales. We stand visibly and vocally with our LGBTQ+ learners and colleagues.
LGBTQ+ History Month gives us the space to honour those who fought before us, to celebrate those who stand with us, and to inspire those who will come after us. It is a reminder that progress is possible, and that each of us needs to keep pushing for a more inclusive, compassionate and equal society.
