Black LGBTQIA+ Speakers
Black LGBTQIA+ voices are essential, powerful, and too often unheard. According to UK Black Pride’s ‘We Will Be Heard’ report, only 25% of queer people of colour feel welcome in local LGBTQ+ spaces, and 33% have faced racial discrimination within them. This underlines the urgent need for inclusive platforms that centre Black LGBTQIA+ experiences. By amplifying these voices – through speakers, panels, and events – we foster belonging, challenge systemic bias, and inspire transformative change. Whether you’re organising a conference, workplace event, or community initiative, booking Black LGBTQIA+ speakers isn’t just representation – it’s a step toward equity. Let’s ensure these stories are not only heard but celebrated.
Yasmin Benoit
Leading Black British Model, and award-winning Asexuality and Aromantic activistPhyll Opoku-Gyimah
Co-Founder & Executive Director of UK Black Pride, Executive Director of the Kaleidoscope Trust & LGBT+ ActivistKelly Holmes
Two Time Olympic Champion, Claiming Gold in the 800M and 1500M at the 2004 Athens Olympic GamesBriana Scurry
Two-Time Olympic Champion & The First African American Female Player in The National Soccer Hall of FameNicola Adams
Britain’s Most Successful Female Boxer, on the Annual Powerlist of Influential African BritsTo What Extent Do Black People Face Discrimination within the LGBTQIA+ Community?
Many BAME LGBTQIA+ people report experiencing discrimination within the LGBTQIA+ community itself. Over half (51%) have said they’ve faced poor treatment or discrimination from other LGBTQ individuals. This figure is even higher among Black LGBTQIA+ people, with three in five (61%) reporting such experiences.
Source: Gay Times
How Do Black LGBTQIA+ People’s Experiences Differ in the Workplace?
At work, Black LGBTQIA+ people face similar levels of bullying and discrimination as White LGBTQIA+ people, but with significant differences. Only 28% are open with everyone at work about their sexual orientation, compared to 39% of white LGBTQIA+ workers. They are more likely to be bullied due to gender identity or expression (9% vs 6%) and report higher rates of hearing offensive jokes (31% vs 27%) and seeing offensive materials (19% vs 13%). Additionally, 5% report being excluded from meetings or social events because of their LGBTQIA+ identity, compared to 3% of white LGBTQIA+ workers, highlighting ongoing issues of exclusion and bias.
Source: TUC
How Can I Support the Black LGBTQIA+ Community?
Creating safe, inclusive spaces for all LGBTQIA+ people means actively challenging racism and bias wherever it appears – including within the community.
Booking a Black LGBTQIA+ speaker through The BAME Speakers Agency is a meaningful step toward building more inclusive, equitable spaces. These speakers offer unique perspectives shaped by the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality – perspectives that are too often overlooked. Through storytelling, education, and advocacy, they challenge systems of exclusion, raise awareness, and inspire audiences to reflect, engage, and act.
For expert guidance on who the top Black LGBTQIA+ speakers are to hire, read our official guide: The 10 Most Prominent Black LGBT+ Speakers to Hire for Pride Month 2025.
To hire a Black LGBTQIA+ speaker, contact The BAME Speakers Agency today! Call 0203 9317 392 or complete the online contact form and one of our agents will be in touch to assist.
