Sue Sanders is a pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist, educator, author and public speaker, best known for co-founding LGBT History Month UK and serving as Co-Chair of Schools OUT UK. An influential campaigner for equality and inclusion, Sue has dedicated her career to challenging discrimination, promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and transforming education. As an openly lesbian activist, she has played a significant role in advancing LGBTQ+ representation in British schools and wider society. Recognised with numerous lifetime achievement awards, Sue is a sought-after speaker on LGBTQ+ history, diversity, equality, education and social change, inspiring audiences through her determination to create a more inclusive society.
Sue began her professional career in 1967 as a teacher, tutor, and lecturer, specialising in women's studies, drama, and challenging homophobia in education. Her experiences highlighted the importance of inclusive teaching and inspired her commitment to improving LGBTQ+ representation within schools. In 1996, she co-founded Chrysalis, further developing her work in equality and advocacy. Sue became Co-Chair of Schools OUT in 2000, an organisation dedicated to making educational environments safer and more inclusive for LGBTQ+ students and teachers. Alongside fellow activist Paul Patrick, she established LGBT History Month UK in 2004, creating an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ history, achievements and contributions to society.
Throughout her career, Sue has received numerous accolades recognising her contributions to LGBTQ+ equality. In 2002, she received the Crown Prosecution Service Award for Equality and Diversity, followed by the Clio's Silver Cup Award in 2005 and the inaugural Derek Oyston Award in 2009. In 2011, she launched The Classroom, providing educators with more than 50 free lesson plans designed to challenge homophobia and promote inclusive education. Her achievements were further recognised with a Metropolitan Police Service Commendation in 2012, the Golden Tupilik Award in 2022 and Lifetime Achievement Awards from Rainbow Honours in 2019 and the National Education Union in 2024.
As a passionate advocate and accomplished speaker, Sue brings decades of experience in education, activism and social justice to audiences worldwide. She has written poetry, short stories, articles and educational materials addressing feminism, LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Drawing on her personal experiences and pioneering campaigns, Sue delivers engaging presentations exploring LGBTQ+ history, discrimination, representation and the importance of inclusive environments. Her enthusiasm, humour and commitment to equality make her an inspirational choice for organisations seeking to celebrate diversity, challenge prejudice and encourage meaningful social change.
