In this compelling article, award-winning speaker and trans awareness educator Rikki Arundel challenges the UK Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the definition of sex under the Equality Act. Drawing on decades of experience shaping equality legislation, Rikki argues that the ruling misrepresents the original intent of the Act, undermines the Gender Recognition Act, and fuels a dangerous climate of fear and discrimination against trans and non-binary people. The article dissects the biased interim guidance from the EHRC and highlights the real-world consequences — from vigilante harassment to social exclusion — now facing gender non-conforming individuals. It ends with a rallying call to organisations to visibly support trans inclusion during Pride Month and beyond. This is essential reading for anyone concerned about human rights, workplace inclusion, or the integrity of equality law in the UK.
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In a powerful and timely piece for Mental Health Awareness Week, award-winning speaker and trans inclusion educator Rikki Arundel calls attention to the devastating impact of recent events on the mental health of trans and non-binary individuals. Highlighting the toxic backlash following the Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act, Rikki paints a deeply personal yet universal picture of how public debates and media hysteria translate into real-world fear, isolation, and stigma. The article calls on allies, friends, and employers to step up—urging them to show support, not just during Pride Month but now, when it is needed most. With statistics on suicide and self-harm among gender non-conforming people already alarmingly high, Rikki offers both a sobering warning and a hopeful call to action: inclusion and allyship are not seasonal values—they are lifelines.Read more...
In a world increasingly defined by polarisation, language has the power to break down barriers. In their latest article, Rikki Arundel explores how embracing they/them pronouns is not just about inclusivity - it’s about challenging binary thinking and fostering a more equal society.
We already use they/them in everyday speech:
• Someone left their phone - do you know if they’ll be back?
• Tell whoever calls that I’ll get back to them.
If this is second nature, why do we struggle when someone asks for they/them as their identity? Rigid binaries fuel division - whether in politics, gender, or identity - and adopting non-binary pronouns is a small but powerful way to move toward a more nuanced, inclusive world.
In this insightful article, Rikki explores how business leaders, HR professionals, and DEI specialists can navigate the divisive debate around trans rights in the workplace. Drawing on Justin Lee’s Talking Across the Divide and Social Identity Theory, the article explains why these discussions often become emotionally charged and how leaders can foster meaningful, respectful dialogue. Rather than forcing agreement, Rikki advocates for a strategic approach—shifting the goal from winning debates to planting seeds of understanding, using storytelling to create emotional connections, and emphasising shared values to build common ground. The article offers practical steps for facilitating workplace discussions that reduce polarization, ensuring all employees feel respected and heard. With trans rights increasingly at the forefront of workplace culture, this article provides timely guidance for leaders looking to manage these conversations effectively. It also highlights Rikki’s expertise as a speaker for Pride Month and beyond.
Here is an idea from Rikki Arundel: to help you kick off Pride Month in style host an inclusive LGBTQ breakfast event. As an expert in LGBTQ advocacy, Rikki suggests incorporating diverse speakers, themed decorations, and engaging activities to celebrate the community's diversity. Hosting the event virtually ensures broader participation, allowing remote team members to connect. This gathering isn't just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of inclusivity that sets a positive tone for the entire month. To make your event unforgettable, consider hiring Rikki, whose engaging talks are designed to inspire and educate. Visit www.genderspeaker.com to learn more.
