Our chair, Lewis Collins, speaks to the Liverpool ECHO about Pan Visibility day and the importance of visibility days generally.
“Pan Visibility Day is on the 24th May, a day dedicated to elevating and celebrating those in our community who identify as pansexual or panromantic. If you identify in this way, it means that you can feel sexual or romantic attraction to anyone, regardless of their gender, sexuality or gender identity.
It is one of a number of special days that the LCR Pride Foundation has marked in recent weeks, along with the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and Lesbian Day of Visibility.
Sometimes we find ourselves faced with the question, ‘do you really need so many awareness days?’ The answer, quite simply, is yes.
The LGBT+ community in the Liverpool City Region and around the world is made up of many beautiful, diverse communities, like the pan community. Each of these groups still face prejudice today, from both inside and outside of the LGBT+ community and they all face different challenges.
The pansexual community often sees their sexuality erased when they are are assumed to be either gay or straight, based on the relationship they are in, or when their pan identity isn’t taken seriously. The impact of this erasure, dismissal and discrimination can have a profound effect, something clearly demonstrated by statistics that show LGBT+ people are more likely to experience mental health issues.
Awareness days like Pan Visibility Day, create a sense of belonging and acceptance for those who may not have it. It is about being seen and seeing others like you, and knowing you’re not alone.
The LCR Pride Foundation will proudly be flying the pansexual flag in support of our city region’s pansexual community, to ensure they feel visible, accepted and above all, supported.”
