We do not own the rainbow, the rainbow is a symbol of hope and I understand the idea behind using it for the NHS during this time. When we see this symbol now we may not know if it refers to LGBT+ Pride or NHS Pride – this is likely to result in not speaking as openly about our identities as we won’t know if we are safe with that person or not. A visible cue (such as a rainbow badge) is an unspoken sign of solidarity, and will be noticed by those that are looking for it. If I am ever asked “how can I show LGBT+ people I’m an ally?”, I always say “be visible”. If the LGBT+ Pride flag is now also used to represent pride in the NHS, how will LGBT+ young people know what the meaning of the badge is, and therefore whether they can open up about their identity?
The badges symbolise to queer kids that the wearer is a safe, supportive person to speak openly about their gender and sexuality. Staff took an online learning course around LGBT+ awareness and the challenges LGBT+ young people face and at the start of this year nearly half of the staff were wearing one. Let’s use this as an example: last year Sheffield Children’s Hospital launched their rainbow badge scheme. The LGBT+ Pride flag is a symbol of solidarity, inclusion and acceptance.
