On Friday 24th June, Harrodians of all ages celebrated the culmination of Pride month with a joyous Rainbow Friday. Harrodian Head of 13s (Year 9), Martha Kinsella, explains why Pride is vital to all of us.
Pride is a time to celebrate individual differences. At Harrodian, our aim is for everyone to feel comfortable and safe being themselves and to teach our young people about respect, fairness and compassion.
At Harrodian, our aim is for everyone to feel comfortable and safe being themselves and to teach our young people about respect, fairness and compassion.
Martha Kinsella, Head of Harrodian 13s (Year 8)
Throughout the month of June in Harrodian, rainbow decorations have been displayed, positive conversations about LGBTQ+ issues have been facilitated and the achievements of queer role models have been celebrated. “Why?” you might ask. The answer is simple: visibility and representation, both of which are vital for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Representation and visibility validate the experiences of young LGBTQ+ people, affirm their existence and let them know that they are seen, valued and free to be themselves. Greater visibility and positive LGBTQ+ representation encourages all children and young people to respect those around them and appreciate differences.
Representation and visibility validate the experiences of young LGBTQ+ people, affirm their existence and let them know that they are seen, valued and free to be themselves.
On Friday 24th June, Harrodian staff and pupils celebrated “Rainbow Friday '' and participated in a Pride themed mufti day to show their support and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ individuals within our school community and beyond. Each year was assigned a specific colour of the Rainbow Pride flag, while teachers were given the task of wearing as many colours as possible (see the gallery below)
Neither group disappointed, each embracing the challenge to wear their most vibrant outfits and contribute to the celebratory vibes throughout the day. It was a joyful event, full of excitement, jubilation, dancing and PRIDE! The money so generously raised will be donated to the London based charity Mosaic LGBT+ Youth Trust
By celebrating Pride in June, and equality, diversity and inclusion more broadly throughout the year, we hope to enable our pupils to become responsible global citizens who respect and celebrate differences, as well as similarities.
Every young person deserves to see themselves, their family and the full diversity of our world reflected in their daily lives. By celebrating Pride in June, and equality, diversity and inclusion more broadly throughout the year, we hope to enable our pupils to become responsible global citizens who respect and celebrate differences, as well as similarities.
What makes Pride vital? Read some Harrodians' thoughts below
'Pride is a celebration of human rights and a method of empowerment. Visibility is key, by celebrating it and encouraging discourse around it, we are not only creating a safer, more open environment in our own school but also contributing towards making a genuine societal change. '
Romy Brill Allen, Lower Sixth Form Student
'Even before Pride month, it was evident that across the Lower Prep there was a keen interest in LGBTQ+ issues, a desire to be inclusive and a love of all things rainbow. The Lower Prep and Pre-Prep 'express yourself' mufti day earlier in the year allowed many unique styles and personalities to shine, whilst being accepted and cheered by peers. As a result of Ms Kinsella's excellent PowerPoint about Dame Kelly Holmes and other role models, there were some fantastic conversations about coming out and a chance to reflect on the struggles faced by many - the 10s had plenty to say! It is clear we are a community of 'allies'. How wonderfully inspiring for the future generation!'
Annabelle Morrow, Prep Teacher, Head of Prep Science and Prep PSHE Coordinator
‘Pride is a celebration of being different. It is a time to reflect on the past and look towards the future to a more accepting world. Traditionally, we were told we shouldn’t have these conversations. Now, we realise these conversations must happen to allow people to be their true selves. The only choice involved is to be fierce and love yourself for who you are.'
Andy Nolan- Head of Biology
'It has been so inspiring to see Harrodian celebrating Pride throughout the month of June. I'm so proud to belong to such a warm, welcoming community that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion. The pupils have engaged in important discussions and it has been a joy to see Harrodians show love, respect and pride for the LGBTQ+ community.'
Issie Osborne, Teacher of Music and Head of Thames House
Please follow the link here to watch two new films about Harrodian's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion programme
