LGBTQ Voices @ MiQ: Aimee France

LGBTQ & Ally Voices of MiQ is an interview series that’s part of our Pride celebrations. In this blog, we’ll hear from MiQ people who are in different roles, in different countries, with different experiences. They’ll tell us about their story, how they’re celebrating Pride and what it means to them. This is just one of the ways we’re supporting the LGBTQ+ community and raising awareness. It reflects how far society has come, but how far we still need to go.

Name: Aimee France 
Pronouns: She/they
Region: EMEA
Role: Associate Trader
Sexuality: Bisexual 

Have you ever been to a Pride celebration?
For one reason or another, I’ve never actually been able to go to Pride. So I’m very excited to go this year! 

What do you find inspirational about Pride month?
That people are able to be themselves, unashamedly and unabashedly! It’s an amazing chance for people to find community, and be around those that identify in the same way they do. 

Who was the first LGBTQ+ character or celebrity you remember seeing?
Willow from ‘Buffy’! There were some issues with it, but it was such a beautiful relationship between Willow and Tara. I remember being very young and confused because I had a crush on Willow. It took me a very long time to call myself bisexual. 

What messages do you hear about LGBTQ+ people in your daily life, and from your family, friends and colleagues?
All sorts really. I’ve had some people say that being bisexual is just being greedy. They said I wasn’t really bisexual because I’ve never been in a relationship with a woman. But on the other hand, I’ve had colleagues be so incredibly kind and encouraging. 

How have allies supported you in the past?
For a long time I felt really uncomfortable saying I am bisexual. Allies have made me feel more comfortable with who I am.

What advice do you wish you had growing up and what would you say to a young LGBTQ+ person now?
I wish I’d been raised in a space that didn’t make a big deal of not being straight. I wish it was a normalised thing so that no one ever felt the need to ‘come out’ or question it. I hope my future children feel comfortable enough to just bring home whoever they happen to love and introduce them – all without a fear of rejection.

My advice would be to never feel ashamed of who you are and to not let anyone get away with bullying you. Go and tell teachers, parents, or whoever has the power to make a change, and don’t stop until the bullying stops. No one should be allowed to make you feel bad about who you are.