A beacon of inclusion for our whole community: Examining a civic university through the lens of LGBTQ + inclusion

Abstract

This exploratory article explores how one UK university sought to understand and enhance its engagement with the local LGBTQ+ community. Drawing on poststructuralist queer and homonormative theories and civic university frameworks, the study analyses data from a community‐facing Pride survey completed by 53 LGBTQ+ individuals. Through emergent coding and thematic analysis, eight key issues are identified: experiences of marginalisation, visibility and community engagement, safe and inclusive spaces, support services, outreach, inclusive institutional values, LGBTQ+ learning opportunities and the need for community connection. The findings highlight the persistence of cis and heteronormativity and the importance of universities as sites of refuge, affirmation, inclusion and resistance. This study shows that LGBTQ+ individuals look to their local university not only as an educational provider but also as an ethical leader, a support network and a cultural anchor. As an exploratory study, these findings are intended to provide indicative insights into how universities are perceived, rather than generalisable conclusions about institutional practice. While the study is limited by its small scale and event‐specific context, it offers learning for other universities aiming to enact their civic mission through meaningful engagement with LGBTQ+ communities. At a time of increased political contestation around gender and sexuality in the United Kingdom, this article offers insight into the role of universities as inclusive civic actors capable of challenging exclusion and fostering social justice.