As Pride month draws to a close, we reflect on what it means and looks like. For every person in the LGBTIQA+ community it will mean something slightly different. Thoughts of Pride often bring with it visions of colour, sparkle, and joy. But there’s much more to it behind the rainbow curtain.

Sarah, a Senior Admin Officer in DHS Disability Services, has kindly shared her experiences as a bisexual woman, in a woman-loving-woman relationship.

Live, laugh, love, Subway

Sarah is well-known in the office for her fiery red hair, boisterous personality, and exceptional outfits. She grew up in what she explained as a very relaxed and fluid family environment where love was valued regardless of gender.  In her words, “you love who you love and as long as they’re not a bad person it doesn’t really matter.”

Other members of Sarah's family also identify as part of the LGBTIQA+  community. Her upbringing allowed her to comfortably explore her own sexuality, which she openly embraces.

“For me, I am quite loud about my sexuality, because it’s always been very normal to me and accepted,” Sarah said.

The story of Sarah and her fiancé, Ashleigh, began in an unexpected place – Subway. When asked about how their relationship started, Sarah laughed, saying: “I had a crush on her for months. She really thought I was coming into work an hour early for fun.”

Fast forward four years, the pair now have a wedding to plan. Sarah proposed to Ashleigh earlier this year in March. They are also extremely happy co-parents to their two cats, Podley and Daisy (adorable, as seen below).

Being Bi in the workplace

Sarah began working at the Department of Human Services (DHS) in January of 2022. Though Sarah had a positive upbringing, she still had some concerns entering into a new workplace as a bisexual woman.

“Coming into the corporate world [DHS] I initially tried to hide who I was because I worried about not being accepted. So, when it came to the first pride month at DHS, it provided an opportunity to open up about my relationship.”

Sarah’s openness about being a part of the LGBTIQA+ community was very well received and celebrated by her DHS coworkers. She also emphasised her gratitude for the support she has had while at DHS.

“I’m very grateful to have a strong and good-natured queer role model at work. While I am loud every other day, Pride month really gives me an opportunity to talk about things that are important to me.”

Pride at DHS

As mentioned earlier, Pride month holds different meanings for different people. For Sarah, it provides a platform for her voice, enabling conversations, fostering understanding, and enhancing visibility in society.

When asked what steps DHS could take to further its efforts in achieving true diversity and inclusion for the LGBTIQA+ workforce, Sarah mentioned how important the LGBTIQA+ employee-led network has been. "I know a few people who are involved in the committee, and I would like to see that continue and grow.”

Specific to Disability Services, Sarah also expressed her thoughts on helping clients learn more about the LGBTIQA+ community and explore their own identities. She stated, “Some of our clients will or do identify with the LGBTIQA+ community. I think it would be so good for them, and staff, to grow their understanding of it. It’s important to give the people we support a platform to express themselves in that way.”

LGBTIQA+ resources and support:

If you are currently on your own LQBTIQA+ journey (or someone close to you is), feel free to explore these resources.  They provide great information and support.

Minus18: Australia’s charity improving the lives of LGBTIQA+ young people.

SHINE SA, Sexual Health Information Networking & Education: Support for all people from diverse cultures, sexual orientations, genders, sexes and abilities.

SARAA: The South Australian Rainbow Advocacy Alliance.