Jonathan Bailey ‘so proud' to support LGBT diversity week in UK schools

North Wales Chronicle

18 hours ago

The initiative, launched by the LGBT+ young people's charity Just Like Us, is an annual celebration of LGBT+ equality, running from June 23-27 in primary and secondary schools across the UK.
The 37-year old actor and patron to the charity, who has previously been open about his own sexuality and experience coming out, has said that he wished he had a similar initiative while he was at school.
Bailey said: 'School Diversity Week is an incredible initiative that creates the inclusive environment every young person deserves.
'Growing up, I wish I had something like School Diversity Week to let me know it was OK to be myself.
'I would have loved to see LGBT+ inclusion celebrated in schools – it would have made such a difference in feeling seen, supported, and accepted.
'This week gives pupils the chance to learn, have fun, and embrace diversity, helping to build a future where all young people can be themselves without fear. I'm so proud to support Just Like Us in making that a reality.
'Thank you to every school, every teacher and pupil taking part because you are helping make the world a brighter and more joyful place for all LGBT+ young people and their friends.'
Bailey is also known for starring alongside pop star Ariana Grande and singer Cynthia Erivo in the film adaptation of the musical Wicked, playing the charming Prince Fiyero.
He added: 'I am immensely proud to be in a position to support Just Like Us and increase the volume and awareness of what they're setting out to achieve, which I think is incredibly important.
'Children deserve the right to feel acknowledged and supported in who they are at such a vital time in their lives.'
The star previously joined the likes of singer Jessie Ware and DJ Annie Mac to back a campaign launched by the charity that urged parents to become LGBT+ allies and help combat homophobic language in primary schools.
Laura Mackay, chief executive of Just Like Us, said: 'School Diversity Week is an opportunity for school communities to come together and celebrate the differences that make us all special.
'LGBT+ young people still face significant barriers at school, at home and in the wider world, but each school that celebrates and prioritises LGBT+ inclusion shows them that they are valued, seen and safe.
'We are so grateful to our patron Jonathan Bailey for taking such a strong stance on supporting LGBT+ young people and improving inclusion in schools, and also to every educator who is making sure that pupils have a supportive environment in which to learn, both during School Diversity Week and all year round.'
School Diversity Week runs from June 23 until 27.