In 2023/24, the CSC’s Time Limited Programme focuses on LGBT+ Rights and aims to encourage dialogue and engagement on the issues affecting LGBT+ people in the Commonwealth.
As part of its programme of activities, earlier this year the CSC was pleased to host a residential retreat at Cumberland Lodge for 37 Scholars from across the Commonwealth. The retreat explored the history of LGBT+ rights in the Commonwealth, the challenges facing LGBT+ people today, and practical ways for Scholars to support LGBT+ rights.
Joining the retreat was a panel of academics and activists who discussed ideas and shared powerful stories from their professional and personal experiences.
LGBT+ rights: progress, barriers, and the global obligation
The first part of the retreat focused on the history and current state of LGBT+ rights globally, with talks led by Dr Matthew Waites, Reader in Sociology at the University of Glasgow, Ibtisam Ahmed, Head of Research at the LGBT Foundation, and Tanvir Alim, a PhD student at the University of Glasgow.
This was followed by a session on LGBT+ allyship with tips for becoming an effective ally led by Yvee Oduor, Operations Manager at galk+, an LGBT+ umbrella organisation in Kenya.
Finally, two of the day’s speakers, Ibtisam Ahmed and Kamanda Bosco, shared their stories about the challenges of growing up under anti-LGBT+ legislation.
LGBT+ access and discrimination in healthcare
The second part of the retreat looked at the obstacles to inclusion that many LGBT+ people around the Commonwealth face. The opening session examined the multifaceted nature of LGBT+ exclusion and was led by activist and human rights defender, Kamanda Bosco.
This was followed by sessions on discrimination and barriers to accessing healthcare led by Professor Nuala McGrath, Professor of Epidemiology and Sexual health at the University of Southampton, Dr Olakunle Oginni, a psychiatrist and Commonwealth Alumnus, and Professor Julia Bailey, Associate Professor in Primary Care at University College London’s e-Health Unit and Specialty Doctor in Community Sexual Health.
Building a platform for learning
The weekend gave Scholars space to talk about these important issues and ask questions they might otherwise not have the opportunity to explore. As well as learning about the challenges experienced by LGBT+ people, Scholars also gained new skills to champion LGBT+ rights in their own communities.
The retreat was the beginning of an ongoing conversation about LGBT+ rights and how Scholars can play an active role in supporting progress on LGBT+ equality.
Head of Commonwealth Scholarships, Annabel Boud, said of the retreat:
‘This was a fantastic weekend and a really unique opportunity for our Scholars. The CSC is committed to supporting the advancement of LGBT+ rights around the Commonwealth and I have no doubt that the conversations we’ve begun during the retreat will contribute greatly to this work. As we think beyond our current Time Limited Programme, we look forward to going even further to ensure the rights, freedoms, dignity and inclusion of all members of the LGBT+ community in all aspects of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s work.’
To find out more, you can read the full report about the residential retreat.
