LGBTQ+ History Month 2022
As part of LGBTQ+ History Month, we've spoken to colleagues Robin and Jane about their journeys to GCHQ and what enables them to bring their whole selves to work.
Robin
"I have always felt an affinity with Alan Turing.
"We are both gay mathematics graduates, with a passion for computers, puzzles, and long-distance running.
"We both joined GCHQ at the same age, eager to tackle the tough cryptographic challenges of the day.
"I have solved complex problems, collaborated with leading experts in academia and industry, represented GCHQ in government meetings, and seen my contributions improve our nation’s security. And I have been fortunate to do this in an organisation and in a time where I can be openly and fully myself.
"My career path has been like Alan’s but the world I find myself in and the freedoms I enjoy, are very different to what Alan experienced.
"GCHQ owns its history here.
It didn’t get it right for Alan and it admits that.
"Today, GCHQ’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion is more than words. I feel it every day. I see colleagues referencing our Trans policy, I use our non-gendered facilities, I see leadership putting mission critical focus on diversity and inclusion, and I sit on rainbow benches catching up with my LGBTQ+ colleagues from our active Pride network who are always on hand for support and encouragement.
"I feel safe to be open about who I am and who I love.
"This LGBTQ+ history month, I remember that I can be openly me only because of the work of others who came before me. And that work isn’t yet finished.
"I will honour their legacy, and Alan’s legacy, by doing what I can to help make the world a better place for those who will come after me."
Jane
"Being open about who I am at work, and not feeling the need to hide, allows me to do a better job.
"I joined GCHQ 6 years ago quickly knew that I wanted to be involved in the Pride staff network, which supports our LGBTQ+ colleagues.
"One of the things we do best here at GCHQ is come together as a community to make a difference to people, and I have always felt very welcome here and able to bring my whole self to work.
"What we do really matters, and I have been lucky enough to have held some really fascinating roles in some really great teams doing important work. I have represented our organisation at multiple events and conferences, have delivered important work for the national security effort, and have worked on some really important stuff on behalf of our LGBTQ+ community, including the introduction of non-gendered facilities, the Trans Policy and leading on our support work for our LGBTQ+ colleagues.
"I’m really proud to work at GCHQ, and I’m proud to be a member of our Pride community.
"This LGBTQ+ history month, we look back at our past to allow us to move forwards. I remember that this path was paved by others who came before me, and I look to continue that legacy for future generations. We still have work to do, but I believe that we can make big differences for real people, as a community."
