Empowerment through history: Keith Barber-Jones discusses LGBTQ+ History Month and workplace inclusivity

Keith Barber-Jones, Experience Designer for AstraZeneca, spoke to myGwork about why he believes it’s important to commemorate LGBTQ+ History Month. He offers advice to those who want to expand their knowledge of LGBTQ+ history, delving into key areas of queer culture that interest him most.

Thanks for chatting to us Keith! To start with, please tell us a bit about yourself. 

My name is Keith Barber-Jones. I’m an Experience Designer for AstraZeneca, and my role involves improving employee workplace experiences and using technology to empower colleagues. I’m also on the leadership team for the AZPride Ireland & UK employee resource group (ERG).  

So, why is LGBTQ+ History Month important to you? 

For me, it’s understanding the paths that have led us to where we are now and celebrating those who faced adversity.

“Our community has always had numerous challenges to overcome and if it wasn’t for those who walked our path before us, we may not have the rights we do today.” 

Equally, I think LGBTQ+ History Month can be used as a platform to highlight existing issues we face today and provide a way for voices to be heard. At one point in time gay rights was heavily campaigned for, and in the modern age we are seeing trans rights being campaigned for. If we don’t learn from history, how can we move forward? 

And were you taught about LGBTQ+ History Month in school? 

In the mid 90s-00s, the topic of LGBTQ+ was never mentioned. I went to a traditional conservative school, up to the age of 16, and found it incredibly difficult to come to terms with my sexuality. Reflecting on this now, if LGBTQ+ history month was spoken about, I feel it would have made me feel less alone and more accepting of my sexuality, or at least provide me with some information I could then learn more about and explore.  

Do you think it’s important for workplaces to celebrate LGBTQ+ history month? If so, why? 

I think it’s incredibly important. We see a rise of LGBTQ+ community members struggle to be open about their sexuality in the workplace. It’s the whole coming out again experience. For workplaces to provide a platform to celebrate events such as LGBTQ+ history month, it helps drive an inclusive culture. 

“We should all feel validated to bring our true selves to work and by having a supportive workplace that understands that is key.” 

My own experience in this area has been sketchy. I always used to use neutral language such as “partner” to describe my boyfriend (at the time). Or sometimes just not speak about my personal life for fear of being judged, ostracised etc. It’s not a fun environment to be in. Fortunately, AstraZeneca was the first place I truly felt I could be myself and now openly talk about my husband and our life together.

Are there any specific LGBTQ+ people from history who are important to you? And why do you think their stories are important? 

Alan Turing’s story is one that continually stays with me. A man that was key to breaking the enigma code and influential in us winning the Second World War. Yet, in 1952 was prosecuted for homosexual acts. I can’t begin to understand how he must have felt. Serving your country to the highest regard and then being prosecuted for how you live your life, who you love. I’d recommend anyone to look into his story as it really highlights the social injustice our community has faced.  

Lastly, what advice would you give someone wanting to learn more about LGBTQ+ history?  

My advice would be to satisfy curiosity and ask questions, respectfully of course. One thing we are aiming to do this year in AstraZeneca is to be curious about the rainbow and our history. Providing this inclusive culture allows people to educate, learn and understand why we should celebrate our history.  

These days we have a so many resources that people can access (unlike the days of dial-up internet, if you know, you know). I’d recommend starting out with what LGBTQ+ history month is and work from there. If you know a member of the community, reach out to them, and ask what their views are. We are such a vibrant and diverse community; we all have our own perspectives, but these should be shared with other members but also allies.