February; Black History & LGTBIQ+ Awareness Month
My identity is a rich and varied one, as much a journey as an identity. I am European Pakeha, Māori and trans, which, in gen-Z phrasing, is a lot.
February marks the annual recognition of Black History Month, and LGBTIQ+ Awareness Month, and it is profound and wonderful to be able to celebrate and feel solidarity with both communities.
They are months of celebration, recognition, and a chance to shine a light into the past as well as revel in the glow of the present; a chance also to draw focus to things that still need to change.
As well as being multicultural, I have a growing global view, spending some of my time in the US, and it is interesting to compare and contrast the African American and Māori experiences as historical narratives; to note, for example, that whilst Maoridom was spared the whips and chains of slavery and indentured servitude, the impacts of colonialism can still be felt with Māori and African Americans each making up about twelve to fourteen percent of the population, but each also accounting for about fifty percent of prison populations.
The month of dual celebration reminds me that, just a generation ago, it would have been unthinkable for someone of my multi-faceted identity and circumstances to persevere, let alone be in a position to seize opportunities and thrive openly in society.
The coinciding of Black History Month, and LGBTIQ+ Awareness Month is a time for me to reflect on the paths that have been cleared for me by people I will never know, who lived lives of quiet yearning, unfulfilled solitude, but also quiet dignity; as well as innumerable rabble rousers and reprobates and agitators and fabulous figures who were determined to blaze a trail no matter the consequences.
Sir Isaac Newton, the famous English scientist, once said, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” In my case, it is the shoulder pads of giants, but an equally inspiring view.
This February, the disparate sides of my identity can proudly cohere and be recognised, and for those whom I play my part in blazing a trail for, I expect that pride and centredness will be felt all year round.
