British Naturism is very proud to announce the appointment of Meleasha as our new Equality and Diversity Officer. As a minority group ourselves, Naturists are well aware of the challenges that minorities face and that we must all strive to achieve equal treatment for all.
The historical discrimination suffered by members of the LGBTQ+ community and People of Colour far exceeds anything that Naturists have endured and we know that, sadly, that discrimination still exists if you scratch the surface. The guiding principle of Naturism is one of respect, meaning that we have a responsibility to ensure that discrimination does not exist in our own ranks and to stand with other minority groups if they face pressure from other parts of society.
Mel takes up the role with academic and professional experience of both Naturism and Equality and Diversity, and as a person of colour and bisexual woman herself, knows well the hatred that still exists in sectors of society. As a long-time Naturist, this is a role that Mel has been preparing for a long time. Mel is also one of British Naturism’s very visible ambassadors, and is already issuing a call to action:
“As a woman of mixed English, Jamaican and Cuban heritage and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, fighting for equality and diversity in all spaces is really important to me. Naturism, all its benefits and the beautiful community we have built is something I shout about to anyone who will listen, so this role seemed like the perfect way to bring my passions together. Whilst I belong to several minority groups I am conscious that I could not possibly represent everyone and there is much to learn about the groups I don’t belong to in particular. Therefore, I encourage anyone interested in Equality and Diversity to get involved and let us know how we can make Naturism even more inclusive so that it can be enjoyed by everyone. Feel free to get in touch or chat to me at an event!”
British Naturism is committed to improving the quality of people’s lives across society, and over the next couple of years, Mel will be a key part of that.