Amy Lamé, London’s first Night Czar, spoke out about the importance of LGBTQ+ acceptance at an exclusive Founders’ Circle event hosted by LGBTQ+ youth charity Just Like Us.
On Thursday (30 June), the author and activist highlighted the need to support queer young people, especially in light of the recent attacks in Oslo where two were killed and 10 were injured after a shooting that took place during the city’s annual Pride celebrations.
“Acceptance is vital in order for LGBTQ+ young people to thrive. But even in 2022, acceptance is not guaranteed,” said Lamé.
“We see more and more Pride flags on display every year, which is fantastic, but sometimes that visibility can feel hollow. While we have made some huge advances, it is still too often dangerous to be LGBTQ+.
“The attack in Oslo is a horrific reminder of how we as a community are still under attack.”
Commenting on the need for support tailored towards LGBTQ+ young people, Lamé added, “I wrote my book, From Prejudice to Pride, with LGBT+ young people in mind. They need to know that there’s a community out there that is ready to celebrate them.”
Lamé also commented on the need for charities like Just Like Us, which aims to make schools safer, happier and friendlier places for LGBTQ+ young people.
“Just Like Us are changing the lives of LGBT+ young people, they’re working to tackle anti-LGBT+ bullying, bring more acceptance and create much-needed change,” said Lamé.
The event, hosted by Salesforce, also heard from teachers who shared highlights from the charity’s recent School Diversity Week initiative and spoke on the importance of delivering LGBTQ+ inclusive education.
Dominic Arnall, Chief Executive of Just Like Us, thanked Lamé and other members of the charity’s Founders’ Circle, a network of individuals donating to help improve the lives of LGBTQ+ young people.
“We are delighted that thousands of schools have now taken part in School Diversity Week, showing their pupils that being LGBTQ+ is something to be celebrated,” said Arnall.
“We’re tremendously grateful to Amy Lamé and the individuals in our Founders’ Circle. They are having a transformational effect on the lives of LGBT+ young people through their roles as donors and flag bearers for the charity.
“We encourage you to join us.”
Join the Founders’ Circle to support Just Like Us’ work with LGBTQ+ young people.
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