Your Voice Matters – Amplifying LGBTQ+ Stories at E.ON

LGBTQ+ History Month is more than just a celebration — it’s a vital opportunity to reflect on the resilience, achievements, and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. Too often, queer history has been erased or overlooked, making it more important to shine a light on the voices and stories that have shaped our world.

At E.ON, we are dedicated to creating the change we want to see in the world – and our employees reflect just that. Our LGBT+ network has built a community across the E.ON Group, connecting colleagues throughout Europe from the UK to Germany, Italy, Sweden and Romania. Through sharing stories of lived experience through blogs and podcasts, we’re helping to create a safe place to support belonging and understanding.

We spoke to Callum Thackray-Lovett, Steerco member of LGBTQ+, about his personal journey, insights, and the importance of amplifying LGBTQ+ voices.

How would you define LGBTQ+ History Month, and why do you think it is important to have a designated month to highlight and celebrate LGBTQ+ history?

Having a designated month is crucial because LGBTQ+ history has often been overlooked, or misrepresented. By celebrating it, we affirm our community’s place in history, foster awareness, and promote inclusivity. It’s also a reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, especially in light of recent events in the US, where policies and rhetoric have threatened protections, access to healthcare, and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who are transgender. In a time when progress feels uncertain, LGBTQ+ History Month serves as both a celebration and a call to action — ensuring that past lessons fuel the ongoing fight for equality.

Are there any lesser-known figures or moments in LGBTQ+ history that you believe deserve more recognition and attention?

Mark Ashton, the co-founder of Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM). During the 1984–85 miners' strike, LGSM formed an unlikely alliance with striking miners, showing solidarity across marginalised groups. Their story was later depicted in the film Pride, but Ashton’s activism extended beyond this, particularly in raising awareness of HIV/AIDS.

In what ways can individuals and communities actively engage with LGBTQ+ history during this month?

One of the best ways is through education — reading books, watching documentaries, or attending talks about key LGBTQ+ figures and moments, especially those often overlooked. Visiting museums or exhibitions, such as those at the British Library or the Bishopsgate Institute, which hold extensive LGBTQ+ archives, can also be a powerful way to connect with history.

Community engagement is also important. Many cities across the UK host LGBTQ+ History Month events, including panel discussions, film screenings, and performances. For example, the LGBTQ+ History Month website lists national events, and organisations like Schools OUT UK provide resources for schools and workplaces to get involved.

Do you think it’s important for workplaces to celebrate LGBTQ+ history month? Why?

Yes, it’s important for workplaces to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month because it promotes inclusivity, raises awareness, and highlights the contributions and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. Recognising this history helps create a more supportive environment where employees feel seen, valued, and respected.

That said, all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) topics are important. Celebrating LGBTQ+ history should be part of a broader commitment to inclusivity that also acknowledges other marginalised groups. A truly inclusive workplace ensures that all employees — regardless of gender, race, disability, or background — feel represented and supported year-round, not just during dedicated months.

Looking to the future

LGBTQ+ History Month is not just about looking back — it’s about using the lessons of the past to inform the present and shape a . By amplifying voices, educating ourselves, and fostering meaningful conversations, we can ensure that LGBTQ+ history is acknowledged, celebrated, and used as a catalyst for ongoing change. Whether through individual learning, community events, or workplace initiatives, we all have a role to play in building a world where every voice truly matters.

To read more about the Purpose Coalition’s analysis of E.ON’s activities in this area, click here.

And to read E.ON’s 2024 Inclusion Report, click here.