LGBT

What does LGBT stand for?

LGBT stands for “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender” and is a common acronym to describe members of those communities. Don't think though, that everyone in that community fits neatly into one of those headings, it's not as simple as that. The LGBT community in Bristol is large and diverse, and the Union has been active in promoting their interests.

What kind of issues does the LGBT community have to deal with?

Like any minority, the LGBT community suffers from prejudice, be it enshrined in law, or getting attacked on the street for kissing your partner in public. Apart from this discrimination, which has improved markedly over the last decade (and for the record Bristol is an incredibly tolerant and open city) there are a number of other issues that most people in the LGBT community have to deal with at one point or another. One of the biggest issues is Coming Out , something that can terrify people or can be a wonderful experience. Dealing with your sexuality is also something that concerns a lot of people, and it really isn't as simple as deciding whether you are gay or straight. We look at all of these issues in detail later on and try explain them, and offer help.

Coming Out

When you arrive at university, you might find loads of openly gay people, and you might find some who decide to tell you a few weeks in, or not until your final year, or maybe not even until you see them 20 years down the line. The important thing, is that there are loads of different people in different positions and coming out is a unique and individual process. It can be nerve wracking, but it can also be an incredibly exciting experience.

You might fear losing friends or loved ones, and it can happen, but that's unlikely to happen, and in the event that it does, you'll have all the support you could need, here at the UBU and you will meet so many more people, who will like you for who you are. One of the things we stress, is that coming out is a very personal thing, and just because it works at a certain time for one person doesn't mean it will work for you, so we are here to talk to, if you have any queries, and the LGBT Officer is happy to share his experiences, as are most members of the LGBT Society.

Don't think thought that coming out is a one off event, it is very much an ongoing process. Typically it starts with admitting to yourself that you are gay, lesbian, etc. Then if you don't already accept yourself, acceptance can come next, and then many people gradually start telling the other people in their lives. There isn't a standard format to it, so don't think because you've gone through it in a different way that you are doing it the wrong way.

People, who hear their friends coming out, often forget how difficult it can be, but for some it is easy and they shout from the rooftops, whilst others can travel a path of denial and shame, but will eventually reach self-acceptance and love. It is crucial to stress here that being straight isn't “normal” it is simply common. Don't feel alone, don't feel isolated or pressurised, you should always do things at your own pace. You shouldn't ever have to deny yourself what you feel, remember you are who you are, take this opportunity to explore your sexuality and to have fun.

Facing Prejudice

Although many people in the LGBT community would like to think that they aren't a minority, there is a perception in the general public that they are. Like any minority group there are a lot of myths and a lack of understanding. If you are surrounded by straight people, there is almost an expectation that you will be straight as well, and for many this can be a daunting expectation. It becomes even harder when you are raised in an environment without gay or lesbian role models or without any information.

Unfortunately there is ignorance, there is prejudice and you will almost certainly have to deal with it at some point in your life. That's not to say that the majority of society doesn't understand. The good thing about being at Bristol is that the Union has a very tough line on prejudice, and equality. Enshrined in our constitution are statements condemning and making prejudice unacceptable, whilst at the same time demanding and supplying equality of opportunity to all students. As well as this the Union plays a key role in trying to change attitudes and hosts a very successful LGBT Awareness week each year to try and educate the wider student body on LGBT issues.

Remember to plan carefully who you are going to tell that your gay, even more so if you are still feeling fairly vulnerable, it can be a shock if things go badly, and you must be confident and certain you want to do it. It can take some time for people to come round and to understand and support you but you should remember you are definitely not alone.

Getting Support

The Union offers a variety of support systems for LGBT students. There is the LGBT Officer, who you can talk to or email at anytime. The Vice-President Welfare is also mandated to act as a support agent. There are trained councillors, an LGBT Support Group, countless leaflets, and publications and access to information support lines. As well as all this, there is the LGBT Society, which organises social activities and provides a genuinely warm caring support group.

Information & Helplines

University of Bristol LGBT Society

http://www.ubu.org.uk/societies/lgbt

Social group for students. We organise regular social events both on and off the gay scene.

Bisexual Helpline
020 8569 7500
(Tuesday and Wednesday 7.30 - 9.30pm Saturday 10.30 - 12.30pm)

Black Lesbian & Gay Helpline
020 7620 3885
(Tuesday and Thursday 11am - 5.30pm)

Jewish Lesbian & Gay Helpline
020 7706 3123
Monday and Thursday 7 - 10pm)

Lesbian & Gay Christian Helpline
020 7739 8134
Information on support available in a variety of Christian churches.
(Wednesday and Sunday 7 - 10pm)
Gay Youth UK .