Actor Jonathan Bailey on his school bullying experience over his sexuality

Key Concepts

• LGBTQ+ student mental health and safety in schools
• Representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media and education
• Breaking limiting narratives in personal and professional life
• Impact of LGBTQ+ representation on younger generations
• Pushback against LGBTQ+ inclusion and strategies for dealing with it

School Experiences of LGBTQ+ Students

Research indicates that LGBTQ+ students are twice as likely to experience anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. They are also twice as likely to be bullied and only half feel safe at school daily. The speaker shared their personal experience of realizing early on that their identity was not safe or celebrated, describing it as feeling like being in a "straight jacket." They drew a parallel between how straight individuals feel about the opposite sex and their own feelings about men, emphasizing the deeply personal nature of identity. The importance of empathy and understanding in schools for all students, particularly for queer students where it can be a "matter of life and death," was highlighted.

Breaking Limiting Narratives in Education and Media

The conversation extended to the need for education to evolve similarly to how Hollywood is breaking boundaries in casting. The speaker agreed that education, beyond sexuality, needs to address race, class, and origin, as everyone faces limiting narratives they must overcome. The speaker initially believed their sexuality and lack of formal drama school training would prevent them from playing certain roles, including Shakespeare.

Impact of LGBTQ+ Representation

The presence of openly LGBTQ+ actors in leading roles, such as Jonathan Bailey as Lord Anthony Bridgerton and the potential for an LGBTQ+ actor in "Wicked for Good," is seen as inspiring. The speaker, alongside Cynthia Erivo, is thrilled to be living in a time where such roles are possible and where organizations like "Just Like Us" are doing significant work. The metaphor of a younger LGBTQ+ self returning a broom, as depicted in a story, symbolizes the reclaiming of one's identity and journey.

Dealing with Pushback

Despite positive advancements, there is pushback, exemplified by groups like "Million Mums" advocating for boycotts of productions featuring LGBTQ+ actors. The speaker stated they do not acknowledge or engage with such pushback, as it is not present in their daily life. Their focus remains on connecting with and inspiring younger generations, particularly "little Johnny" and younger versions of themselves, which is a shared goal with Cynthia Erivo.

Conclusion

The discussion underscores the critical need for inclusive environments in schools and media, where LGBTQ+ individuals can feel safe and celebrated. The progress in media representation, with openly LGBTQ+ actors taking on significant roles, is a positive development that inspires younger generations. While pushback exists, the focus for those advocating for inclusion is on positive impact and empowering future generations, rather than engaging with negativity. The ability to play roles like the "Winky Prince" and the work of organizations like "Just Like Us" represent a significant shift towards greater acceptance and visibility.