lgbtatlsesu-blog

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

I'm concerned that with the new officer that the society will turn into a political movement, instead of just a fun place for people to be themselves. Can we have some events just for gays and lesbians and all trans people instead of bi/queer/poly/ace/etc. (which are SO equally important, I just felt like recently people who aren't in the '+' are being excluded).

Heya.

I’m really sorry to hear about your concerns- thank you for sharing them here!

Firstly, I think it’s important to separate the Officer position from the society. Whilst, as LGBT+ Officer, I work very closely with the Pride Alliance (and, constitutionally, I’m part of the committee), I’m *not* the Pride Alliance. That means that I can’t answer for them, though I can pass on your concerns to them if you wish.

In terms of my role as Officer, I see politics and enjoyment as two very important strands- and not mutually exclusive ones, either! So far this term, I’ve been trying to provide space for both. I’ve run one main event, which was the Pancakes event- an event that was not political at all! I’m in the process of planning more events- for example, for Pride Week- but I think these are a good mix of political and social. Having social spaces is really important, it allows for community building, cohesion and making sure that people are socially connected- three super important things! However, as a community, politics is also important; the struggles of the queer community- and, in particular, subsets of this community- are far from over. To ignore that is to be very complacent, and to listen only to privilege.

In regards to having events ‘just for gays and lesbians and all trans people’- this is something I am never going to organise. Whilst there are occasionally events specifically for certain subgroups of the community, the majority of events are open to everyone- and this includes gays, lesbians, and all trans people. More strikingly, events that are made open to everyone often attract predominantly- in some cases, only- people identifying as gay and/or lesbian, or derivatives thereof. This is because, generally, people identifying as gay and/or lesbian have a certain level of privilege within the community, which means they often feel able to attend events that other subgroups of the community can’t. These other subgroups tend to experience oppression of a form that those identifying as gay and/or lesbian don’t; meaning that providing spaces specifically for them is not a form of oppression to gay and/or lesbian identifying people, but a way of acknowledging levels of relative privilege within the community. On the other hand, to have events excluding them- that is, ‘just for gays and lesbians and all trans people’- would be further marginalising and alienating them from a community that should be welcoming them. Lastly on this point, I’d like to note that my tendency not to mention trans people in with gay and/or lesbian identifying people is deliberate- I’m aware that many trans people feel excluded too, and to classify them as a homogenous group would be, in my opinion, wrong.

Lastly, in response to your feeling that people not in the ‘+’ are being excluded; I’m sorry if you feel that you are being excluded. However, at present, I’m not really sure what there is that I can do. So far, I’ve only run one event- the pancakes event, that was open to everyone (not even limited to just the LGBT+ community). Therefore, it’s hard to say that anyone is being excluded!- so I’m not really sure what you mean by this.

I hope this clears things up a little. If you have any further concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate in contacting me.

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Hi! As an ace student at LSE, I'm always concerned that we will be left out of queer spaces, I was just wondering, where on this do you stand?

Heya! I’m really sorry to hear that you have these concerns, but hope that, at least in regards to the LSESU community, I can lay them to rest. I am a very firm believer in all LGBT+ identities as being valid- and, therefore, in need of inclusion, support and acceptance. As LGBT+ Officer, I am saying unequivocally that ace and ace-spec identities are a part of the community I am hoping to lead. There is no question around this, and anyone who says differently is not talking about the same community. So, from a cognitive point of view, this is where I stand.

However, holding an idea and working with this idea in mind are two very different concepts: it’s not enough for me to just hold that idea, it needs to be present in everything I do, too. This is part of the reasoning behind me aiming to stay away from clubbing environments as ‘main events’, as these are often very sexualised/romanticised, which could be alienating to ace/ace-spec identities. I’m really hoping to create spaces where ace/ace-spec identifying people can come together to feel united, and to create spaces where ace/ace-spec identifying people can communicate to others their issues in a way that requires as little of their emotional labour as possible. Lastly, I will always be seeking to challenge aphobia present in both my internalisations, and that I may come across in others.

Thank you for asking this question; if you would like anything clarified, have any more questions, or even if you’d like to suggest a particular event or similar that you’d like to see, then please please contact me! Thank you.

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

What events will you be holding for people who don't enjoy/don't have the energy for nights out with loud music and lots of drinking? Also, do you have any plans to better integrate postgrads into the society?

Heya! I’m really glad you asked this, because these are two things that are really important to me. 

I know that, in the LGBT+ community as a whole, there is often little provision for those who dislike (or can’t deal with, for whatever reason!) events revolving around loud music, dancing and drinking. Therefore, under my aim of ‘be there for everyone’, having events that don’t revolve around these things at all is hugely important to me. Although my plans aren’t entirely solidified yet, I doubt I will be running any events that will revolve solely around clubbing, and the loud music & drinking cultures associated with these- so whilst they might be an ‘add on’ to an event (eg, the LGBT+ Careers Networking event traditionally leads to a night out in Soho), they won’t be the ‘main event’, so to speak. Instead, I’ll be using my role to put on more social-based events, such as today’s Pancake Event and some coffee morning/lunchtimes. In addition, I’m hoping to run some specific focus-groups, which will be either a social space or a discussion space (or both!) for specific groups and/or issues. If there are any events you would particularly like to see, I would really love you to get in contact and suggest these- I’ll see what I can do!

In terms of postgrad involvement: firstly, my role is as an Officer, not in the society. So whilst naturally there is a lot of overlap, I don’t have any jurisdiction over getting postgrads more involved in the society! However, I am looking to greatly improve postgrad involvement in the LGBT+ community. I’m still not entirely sure what form this is going to take, mostly because I’m not a postgrad- I can’t (and won’t!) claim to know what postgrads want and need! I’m partly waiting for the postgrad officer to be elected so I can work with them in assessing what postgrads need/want. However, that’s a long way off, in terms of the university year! So, in the meantime, I’m hoping to go to postgrad halls, to publicise my role, and to get feedback on what they want/need from me as an Officer. In addition, I’m planning on creating a postgrad ‘steering group’, made up of postgrad LGBT+ identifying people who can work to make this community for accessible. This isn’t work that’s going to create a change overnight- however, I’m hoping that the effects will start to be felt this term, and will continue well into the future.

Thank you again for asking such great questions! If you would like any clarification or further information, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

It’s been fantastic celebrating Bi Awareness Week with you this week! To round off the week, I wanted to give my response as LGBT+ Officer to a Tweet I saw yesterday (pictured). This year, as LGBT+ Officer, I’m going to work with LSE students who identify as bi to find out what they need/want, and then work to implement this; using anonymous forums (such as the Tumblr) to create clear two-way dialogue. I’m going to work to create a community where all who identify as bi feel included, respected, accepted and heard- for example, by running events specifically aimed at bi issues. Lastly, I’m going to continue to hold myself to account, in combatting the biphobia I know pervades aspects of my life and raising bi voices. If there’s anything else you’d like to see from me in regards to bi identities, or any questions you have, please feel free to contact me: on here, on Facebook, on Twitter or on email.

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Ready for today’s Welcome Fair!!

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Fantastic bi content from Anna Borges!! (@AnnaBroges on Twitter)

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

MONDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER!!! Check out the FB event for more- https://www.facebook.com/events/683498055192420/?ti=icl

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Fantastic bi content from Anna Borges!! (@AnnaBroges on Twitter)

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Fantastic bi content from Anna Borges!! (@AnnaBroges on Twitter)

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Happy Bisexual Awareness Week 2017 (Sep 17-24) with BiNet USA and GLAAD! #BiWeek

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

#BiChat

The Trevor Project (@TrevorProject on Twitter) held a fantastic Twitter chat about bi awareness week today! You can check it out through their Twitter profile or by looking through the #BiChat hashtag, as well as continuing to read this for some highlights, resources & people to follow!

Please note- this is all stuff that was brought up on Twitter; this isn’t a direct endorsement of any of the people/resources mentioned, but a passing on of information from others!

The chat was hosted by both the Trevor Project (@TrevorProject) and Eliel Cruz-Lopez (@elielcruz), with panelists Gaby Dunn (@gabydunn), Anna Borges (@annaborges) and Marina Watanabe (@marinashutup)- so they’re some good people to follow!

Q1: What was coming out as bisexual like for you?

Lots of answers here talking about ‘not feeling queer enough’ and/or struggling with coming out to self as being most difficult. Also some discussion about having to constantly ‘come out’. However, also lots of Tweets talking about the sense of relief that could come with coming out.

Q2: What does positive bisexual representation look like to you?

One of the biggest answers here was about SAYING THE WORD! It’s not enough to just have representation where someone dates different genders- it’s about using words such as bi, bisexual, biromantic and queer. As well, not perpetuating stereotypes is important, and not over-sexualising. According to the answers, good bi representation is people who are well-rounded and successful, living their life and being happy with their identity: and all types of people, too! Anyone and everyone can identify as bi. Lastly, including bi people- eg, actors, directors, scriptwriters- is important.

Q3: Do you remember a time that you saw yourself represented in your community or in media? How did it make you feel?

The initial comments on this are that representation is really recent, but that there is a lot more now than there used to be (although, this probably isn’t hard!). Finding representation makes people feel affirmed and validated- and, often, emotional! Shows such as San Junipero (Black Mirror), The Bold Type and Grey’s Anatomy were mentioned, and Youtube seems to be particularly important- stars such as Dodie Clark (@doddleoddle) and Shane Dawson (@shanedawson) were mentioned specifically!

Q4: What education resources do you recommend to combat biphobia and bierasure?

Some great resources coming to light here! Particularly, the Bisexual Resource Center (@BRC_Central) and the Bisexual Index (@bisexualindex), as well as other Twitter accounts (such as @BIWOC). The main theme here is social media: highlighting it’s importance in finding a community.

Q5: Do you have any tips for taking up space as a bi person?

‘Being loud’ seems to be the number one tip here!- but always with the reminder that this is only if it’s safe and comfortable to do so. Also remembering that your identity is yours- and only yours!- to define, and that you don’t have to copy what you see elsewhere for it to be valid. Lastly, that it’s okay to correct people.

Q6: How do you uplift and amplify other bi people?

Number one here is definitely to support others: to share them, to accept them, to seek them out, to reinforce their validity!

Q7: How can we make mental health resources more accessible to the bi community?

Lots of training!- particularly, training those involved in mental health resources in avoiding biphobia and bi-erasure, as well as in the intersection of being bi and mental illness. A suggestion was also sharing/promoting positive resources, so others in the community can access them.

Q8: How do you practice self-care?

Lots and lots of great suggestions for this one! Quite a few Tweets on the importance of disconnecting/disengaging when needed, as well as not ‘hate-reading’ things that are likely to be negative. Basic self-care things, such as showering and getting outside; as well as things such as watching Youtube videos and meditation. Also, surrounding self with positivity, validating your own identity, and reaching for help when needed!

Q9: How can we normalise conversations about mental health and suicide prevention?

Mostly, having discussions and conversations!! Also, being direct but also casual, and not being ashamed. An important point also raised about acknowledging cultural differences in such discussions- and the subsequent importance about creating spaces to hold conversation.

Overall, the #BiChat was super fascinating, and there was so much good stuff discussed- the above was only a small part, so please do go and check out the full #BiChat on Twitter! Enjoy!

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Freshers’ Flu 101

Freshers is over, and just as you’re feeling ready to start making it to those 9am lectures, or starting that rather hefty reading list, you find yourself wrapped up in your duvet looking like a human burrito, your head is pounding and you’ve lost your voice…

Yes, my friend, you have been struck by the force of the infamous Freshers’ Flu. You’d heard the stories and the rumours, and it turns out they’re all true.

In fact, even if you didn’t go to any freshers events, freshers’ flu has probably caught you anyway; it shows no mercy for second or third year students, nor does it skip postgrads or PhD students; everyone and anyone is a target.

I experienced freshers’ flu last year and lived to tell the tale, so thought I’d give you the lowdown on how to get back on top form, because it really isn’t convienient being tucked up in bed with a hot water bottle when you have so many new people to meet and so many things to do!

Causes

Not to burst your bubble or anything, but freshers’ flu isn’t really a kind of flu at all - it’s more like a bad cold.

In fact, the term ‘freshers flu’ is pretty much a UK phrase…

Freshers’ flu can be caused by a number of things:

1.    Meeting new people

2.    Lack of sleep

3.    Eating junk food

4.    Drinking too much alcohol

5.    Stress

Symptoms

So how do you know if it’s freshers’ flu that’s keeping you glued to your duvet or something else?

Here’s a list of the most common symptoms of freshers’ flu – see if you tick any of the boxes, and be sure to visit a doctor if your symptoms get worse, or aren’t on this list!

Headache: Does it feel like a loud marching band has decided to take up residency between your temples?

Dry Cough: Do you sound like you’ve been smoking 20 a day since you were 13?

Sneezing: Are you being blessed way more than usual?

Shivering: Are you still shivering despite wearing 3 jumpers, being wrapped up in a blanket, and having the heating the central heating on full?

Fever: But at the same time you’d happily dunk yourself into an ice bath?

General grogginess: Do you feel exhausted at even the thought of getting up and making a cup of tea?

Although these symptoms will make you feel a bit like death warmed up for a few days, they won’t leave you destined for a hospital bed. All you can do is reassure yourself that you won’t feel like this forever, and will have to wait out the storm the best way you can.    

Cures

1. Eat healthily

Now, I’m the kind of person who would choose a chocolate bar over an apple any day of the week, so I understand that this is hard… however, eating lots of fruit and veg will ensure your body has the vitamins, minerals and strength it needs to fight the flu. Don’t waste your money on multivitamins – get yourself the real deal; make yourself a nice roast vegetable pasta bake, or drink lots of orange juice.

2. Stay hydrated     

Again, this seems obvious, but drinking lots of water will help your body flush out those freshers’ flu symptoms, and give you energy to battle through them.

3. Get lots of rest

Sleep is absolutely one of the best ways to get rid of freshers’ flu; if you’re tired, your body won’t have the energy to fight off the flu. Taking a night or two off socialising really isn’t a bad thing – you still have the rest of the year to make up for it! Plus, it means you won’t pass freshers’ flu onto some other unsuspecting victim, so not only will your body be thankful, but so will theirs!

4. Take the right kind of drugs

Paracetamol will help lower your temperature, whereas anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen will help with any sinus issues. Pharmacies sell all kinds of cold-cure tablets, but in my experience, wither paracetamol or caffeine-based products work best, but always read the dosage requirements carefully.

5. Wash your hands

Hand sanitizer will become your new best friend. Take them everywhere you go, and even introduce them to the rest of your friends if you like. This will stop your germs spreading, and will ensure any you may have picked upon the tube or at that grotty bar are kept at bay.

6. Clean your room

Very boring, but very essential. Clean your bedsheets regularly, hoover your room and keep your window open to let in lots of fresh air. This means any germs who may have been planning to room with you for a while get the message, pack their bags, and leave you be.

7. Exercise

Gentle exercise will help reboot your immune system and help you feel a lot better, even if it’s absolutely the last thing you want to do. There are tons of yoga videos on YouTube will flows specifically for when you’re not feeling 100%, or if that’s not your thing, go for a walk or gentle jog.

8. Gargle salt water

This is a trick treasured by singers and musicians. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in warm water (boil the kettle and add cold water – don’t use water straight from the hot tap!) and gargle 3 – 4 times a day. It’s not the most enjoyable thing you’ll ever do in your life, but it’s very effective, will soothe your throat, and practically costs nothing.

9. Tea, glorious tea

Never underestimate the power of a hot drink. They are extremely soothing, and can help loosen all that gross stuff in your throat you keep coughing up. Chopped ginger and lemon in hot water works wonders, but if you’re a wimp/fusspot (delete as appropriate) like me, and can’t bear the thought of putting yourself through that torture, there’s nothing wrong with a nice cup of English Breakfast tea.

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

It’s Bi Awareness Week! I’m looking forwards to sharing lots of bi-related content with you this week! For today, I wanted to say a resounding WELCOME TO THE QUEER/LGBT+ COMMUNITY to anyone who identifies as anything under the bi umbrella: you are valid, you are queer (if you want to be!), you are so so welcome in this community. Thank you for being here x

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]

Some more pictures, this time from Carr Saunders and Rosebery! Say hi to Grace, the Pride Alliance's Community & Welfare Officer who's at Carr Saunders; and Chessie, the Pride Alliance's Secretary, at Rosebery!

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All set up at LSE High Holborn!

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Move In Day!

It’s officially Halls Move In Day here at the LSE! There are a whole lot of emotions associated with moving in- it’s okay to be excited, it’s okay to be nervous, it’s okay to feel however you feel about it! Myself and some other representatives of the LGBT+ community here at the LSE will be in each of the halls today, to chat, help you move in, welcome you to the LSE and answer any questions or worries you might have. We’re really looking forwards to meeting you!

[lgbtatlsesu-blog]