LGBTQ+ activist speaks out about growing up in Chesterfield
Calum 'McFabulous', also known as Calum McDermott, moved to Manchester after being teased and called names in school
Last updated 12th Jun 2023
An LGBTQ+ activist is speaking to us about his experiences growing up as gay.
Calum McFabulous, who is also known as Calum McDermott, was eighteen when he decided to move to Manchester from Chesterfield.
Calum was teased and called names in school.
It's after we told you last week about a school in New Mills cancelling their 'Pride Day' after concerns were raised about some of the plans.
Originally, the 'Drag n Rainbows' non-uniform day was met with support and concern by parents. The head teacher decided not to go ahead with it, saying it will disrupt pupils exams. They added they support diversity in the school and will be celebrating in other ways.
Calum says educating children about the LGBTQ+ community is important:
"LGBTQ plus children exist. I was one of them and they need support. They need to be seen, supported and valued."
"We see that LGBTQ plus people exist. It is a reality, so therefore, as someone who was once a gay queer child, I see the value in pride days in Pride Month, in pride events, and I wish I had that growing up."
Calum said it was tough being a gay child in an area like Chesterfield:
"Growing up, it was quite hard. I felt like it would have been much easier to have been closeted. I guess inclusivity wasn't a big enough thing.
"As someone who grew up in Chesterfield, who loves Chesterfield, cares about Chesterfield... I want to push that inclusivity and for people to try and understand rather than just being hateful."