I credit this week’s guest on ‘Pause. And Rewind…’ with getting me involved with our LGBTQ+ staff network when we were colleagues which essentially kickstarted what I am doing now.
Terry Eastham (he/him) is a proud & loud LGBT+ activist. He’s the driving force behind much of London South Bank University’s Pride activities as well as being heavily involved in UNISON’s LGBT+ group where, as well as being Co-Chair of the Greater London Region LGBT+ group, he was also a member of the UNISON National LGBT+ Committee.
Whilst he can often be seen during Pride donning rainbow trainers, caps & tees, this hasn’t always been the case. In his own words, Terry “spent a long-time swimming down the river Denial” when it came to his sexuality - something which spurred his decision to join the armed forces back in the mid 80s. It was a time he reflects on with pride & joy & shares his proudest moment so far being his passing out parade. And even though the training was hell & despite the suspicions & invasive investigations for being gay, he fondly recalls the spirit of togetherness through the suffering. - “everyone is going through it with you”.
Terry finally stepped out of the closet at the age of 45 - a moment of pure relief. He shares an anecdote about coming out at a family dinner which references Cliff Richard & a game of Trivial Pursuit.
We chat about Terry’s love of London - the freedom & friendliness of the city, along with the magic that theatre brings him as a theatre reviewer. Terry & I share a passion for volunteering too having been some of the original volunteers for Queer Britain, the UK’s first & only dedicated LGBTQ+ museum. We explore his love of rules & willingness to break them on his terms, giving speeches & emotions. Terry describes himself as someone who just “goes through life” & doesn’t see him as remarkable - I beg to differ & I’m sure you will too. Enjoy!
Take care of yourself whilst listening as always as we cover some challenging topics.
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