The power of lesbian visibility
Stonewall's Chair of Trustees, Cat Dixon, on the power of visibility, representation, and creating change for the lesbian community.
As a lesbian, I sometimes feel caught between visibility and invisibility. My decision to come out at work which, I first did in the 1990s, and be openly lesbian and embrace my authentic self, was at the time, and still is, an act of defiance against societal norms and expectations.
I remember being asked questions like whether I was “the husband” and I suspect many struggled to know quite what to make of me! Despite, being “out”, I didn’t want my sexuality to totally define me – it is a fundamental part of me, but I have always preferred to be seen and judged on what I do and the person I am, as opposed to being “the lesbian”.
Being a visible lesbian and women leader in my role as CEO of Ciarb and Chair of Stonewall, however, is not just about being seen; it is about reclaiming space, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. In a world that still, and increasingly, struggles with acceptance and equality for the LGBTQ+ community, visibility is a form of resistance and empowerment.
Visibility is not just about being seen; it is about being heard, represented, and respected. It is about breaking the silence and speaking out against discrimination, prejudice, and injustice and this is why I am the Chair of Stonewall. I have experienced direct discrimination at work because of my sexuality which resulted in me leaving the Army and other form of discrimination both in and out of work including exclusion, verbal abuse and, at times, the threat of violence.
Being a visible lesbian means living openly and unapologetically as a lesbian woman. It means refusing to hide or downplay your identity for the comfort of others. It means being proud of who you are and celebrating your queerness in all its forms.
One of the key reasons why visibility is important for me as a lesbian is therefore representation. Representation matters because it validates our existence, our experiences, and our identities. When we see other lesbians and others from the GBTQ+ community being visible and unapologetic, it sends a powerful message that we are not alone, that we are part of a vibrant and diverse community. Representation also challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about lesbians, showing the world that we come in all shapes, sizes, and colours.
Visibility also plays a crucial role in advocacy and activism. When we are visible, we have the opportunity to educate others about LGBTQ+ issues, raise awareness about the challenges we face, and advocate for change. Our visibility can inspire and empower other LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their identities and speak out against discrimination. By being visible, we can create a ripple effect of change that extends far beyond our own lives.
My own experience as a visible lesbian has been both empowering and challenging. Coming out was a deeply personal and liberating experience, but it also came with its share of fear, shame and uncertainties. I have faced discrimination, prejudice, and microaggressions, but I have also found support, acceptance, and love within the LGBTQ+ community. Being visible has allowed me to connect with the LGBTQ+ community, share my story, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
In my journey towards visibility, Stonewall has played a crucial role in supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ individuals. Stonewall, through advocacy, education, and campaigns, has been at the forefront of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK and beyond. Stonewall has changed laws, policies, and attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals, making the world a more inclusive and accepting place.
So for me, being a visible lesbian is about more than just visibility; it is about authenticity, advocacy, and empowerment. It is about embracing who we are, challenging the status quo, and fighting for a more just and inclusive world.
By being visible, we can inspire others, create change, and pave the way for a more accepting future. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where all LGBTQ+ individuals can live openly, proudly, and authentically.
Happy Lesbian Visibility Week.