Founded in May 2008 by three LSE staff members, Spectrum is now a recognised channel for LGBTQ+ inclusion at LSE. 

Spectrum builds on a rich LGBTQ+ history at LSE: the Gay Liberation Front in the UK was founded at LSE in 1970 and LSE Library holds one of Britain’s biggest LGBTQ+ collections.

In 2019, LSE took part in our first ever Pride in London parade, climbed to rank 92 in Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index and become a Global Diversity Champion member. Spectrum is proud to been one of the driving forces behind these achievements.

These three aims were put together by Spectrum’s founding committee in 2008. They are still relevant today:

Lobbying and representation

To act as the officially recognised staff representative group for issues relating to LGBTQ+ equality in regard to School policy and formal consultations which the School may undertake.

Culture and education

To organise in-School cultural and educational activities that focus on LGBTQ+ issues, in particular in areas where the School has academic expertise, to promote greater awareness of debate on LGBTQ+ issues and the School's contribution to these areas. Events are open to all.

Social networking and support

To provide a social support network for LGBTQ+ staff at the School, to encourage staff to feel open and confident about their identity, and to demonstrate the School's commitment to diversity and equality of opportunity in the workplace.

Read our Terms of Reference

Spectrum is run by a committee and led by by two co-chairs.

What does the committee do?

The committee makes sure Spectrum represents the needs of the LGBTQ+ LSE community at large. Activities could include:

• organising meetings and events
• coordinating projects like Pride Month
• communicating with members and the wider School
• feeding in to LSE-wide consultations and lobbying for change.

Being a committee member is a great opportunity to develop your skills while part of a supportive team.

Can I join the committee?

Membership is open to LSE staff members who are LGBTQ+. We'd particularly like to hear from individuals who are bi, pan, trans, non-binary and BAME. 

Email us at any time to express your interest in joining the committee. 

Meet the Spectrum committee members 2020/21

James Aitken (Co-Chair)

James is Executive Officer in the Directorate.

Amanda Gaddes

Amanda is Executive Programmes Manager, Department of Health Policy, and joined the Spectrum committee in 2020.

Aaron Trevitt

Aaron is Employee Engagement Adviser at LSE Careers.