Kevin Bazeley
Session summary
This session explores the history of how lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender personnel have been treated within the UK armed forces. The discussion is framed by the lived experiences of the speaker, offering personal insights into this journey. It traces the path from the complete exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals following the 1967 Sexual Offences Act, through to the landmark ruling by the European Court of Human Rights that overturned the ban, and ultimately to the ongoing campaign for recognition and reparations for veterans affected by that policy. The session reflects on the injustices faced by those who wished to serve but were denied the opportunity because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Through a timeline of events, attendees will learn how the fight for justice led to an acknowledgment by the State that it had failed these individuals, culminating in an official apology and recognition of the harm caused by an unlawful policy. Additionally, the session examines how the UK armed forces have evolved to become Employers of Choice for members of the LGBTQ+ community, and how serving personnel have worked to welcome veteran sailors, soldiers, and aviators back into the military family.
১১:১৫ AM
২৩ অক্টোবর, ২০২৫
All times should be listed in UK time however if you are viewing outside the UK you may see it listed in your local time; if so, please check the UK time at the full programme listing for #SaferToBeMe.
Biography
Kevin Bazeley, Deputy Memorial Officer, Fighting With Pride. Kevin is a Royal Air Force veteran who served as a Navigator from 1985 to 1995 before his Administrative Discharge under the Ban. Kevin qualified as an accountant after his discharge but used his lived experience of discrimination to educate and advocate within the organisations he went on to work with. Creating his own business in 2022 to teach and speak on matters of inclusion and diversity, he was asked to join Fighting With Pride to assist the charity with its activities in a special projects role. Following the successful publication of the 2024 Fighting With Pride Review and Directory, Kevin moved on in August 2024 to deliver the LGBT+ Armed Forces Community Memorial. Kevin lives in Worcester with his husband of 16 years.
