Pride month 2023

We're proud to share a message written by our very own LGBTQ+ Network. At EDF, our employee networks are integral to our inclusive culture, they are open to all and support our people whilst advocating for positive change.

Every year, LGBTQ+ people and allies across the world come together to celebrate Pride Month. Observed in June to commemorate the Stonewall riots in June 1969, Pride Month is a time for people to show their support for LGBTQ+ rights, culture and communities and to recognise the impression LGBTQ+ people have left on history.

We can take some pride in being part of an inclusive Britain where we have seen the number of lesbian, gay, bi, trans and asexual people in England and Wales being counted in the Census 2021 for the very first time. We now live in a society where LGBTQ+ people can live openly and free, where we can form our own families and where our lives and history are taught in schools to the next generation.

We can’t take progress for granted however, throughout the past 50 years, the LGBTQ+ community has withstood numerous smear campaigns from those who wish to push us back. These attacks continue today in particular towards the trans community in our politics and in the media. Pride Month is simultaneously a celebration and a peaceful protest. It’s an opportunity for LGBTQ+ communities to shine a light on the issues still facing us, to encourage inclusiveness and to improve the attitudes of society towards LGBTQ+ people.

Some stand out points from the Census 2021 showed us that in England & Wales;

• There are nearly as many bi and pan people as there are lesbian and gay people
• 0.5% of the population have a gender identity that is different from the one they were assigned at birth
• There are 28,000 people in England and Wales who identify as asexual
• LGBTQ+ people live and participate in every part of the countries, rural and urban
• Brighton and Hove is the most LGBTQ+ place

We hope you have a wonderful Pride Month from the LGBTQ+ Network!