Interview with Proud Watford Co-Founder Lee Keogh

In an interview this month with Alexinder Riyat, co-founder of Proud Watford, Lee Keogh, explains how the organisation started and what it means to him and the community. "Proud Watford is for everyone no matter your background or your ability or where you come from." - Lee Keogh

Where did the idea for Proud Watford come from? 

Co-founded by Lee Keogh and Ian Port, Lee explains; "we actually came up with the idea when we were out planting trees... (we were) talking about more visibility for LGBTQ+ people and coming up with the idea of something fun."

How did that idea formulate into what it is today and why do you think it was needed particularly in Watford?

"We took it to various stakeholders, the council, working on the shoulders of Herts Pride and we have been able to mould it into a creative organisation. There was a need to create more safe spaces in Watford for LGBTQIA+ people (by) coming up with fab themes for creative events that people will just enjoy and feel safe at."

What is intersectionality?

"We all have different elements of our lives, whether it’s our race, our gender, our sexuality, our ability. However, what happens when those things cross? Intersectionality looks at the different life experiences people face when they have multiple layers. (Intersectionality) Covers and looks at individuality and being able to take an intersectional approach to things. Being able to understand different peoples experiences and put yourself in their shoes…  to then take informed approaches when communicating or working with them or just going about your daily life in an inclusive way"

How did your features affect you growing up?

"I’ve never walked in my life and being able to adapt to that, being able to live my life as full as I can and independently as I can has come with a lot of challenges including a lot of mental health struggles. When I got the therapy I needed, the final piece of the puzzle was actually my sexuality and that is where my first kind of intersection came from, (it) helped me realise I’m not just disabled I’m gay too and that makes me a disabled gay man."

Three Proud Men

Having performed at the Pump House Theatre, Three Proud Men was written by Ian Port, directed by Daniel Clarkson and produced by Chris Wheeler. Telling three stories that span generations: Lee’s full life from birth to upbringing and coming out, Ian Port's personal story and the life of 92 year old gay man, Bryan Timberlake. Coming to the Pump House stage again this year for the Watford Fringe festival on the 13th of July.

What does Pride Month mean to you?

(Pride) "Represents freedom of expression. All we should want from anyone is for them to be able to embrace themselves, love themselves and be happy."

How to get involved with Proud Watford

"We are always looking for people to get involved, whether it's volunteering or just coming along to our events." There is a second year anniversary party and a 'Dementia doesn't discriminate' event to highlight the impact of dementia on the LGBTQIA+ community coming up which you can book at https://www.proudwatford.com/events