Meet Matthew Black LGBT+ rep, North West region
1.What made you want to become a rep?
Coming to terms with being gay in my early teens set me on a path of standing up against injustices – dealing with discrimination, challenging discriminatory legislation, and supporting the fight for equal marriage. So stepping up as a union rep felt natural. It’s a way to carry on that fight, making sure everyone at work has a voice and is treated with respect and dignity.
2. What is your proudest moment as a rep?
I’m incredibly proud of supporting LGBT+ members. It means the world to know I’ve made a real difference in someone’s life by standing up for them, supporting them, or helping resolve a difficult situation.
3. Who are your ultimate heroes?
I’ll focus on LGBT+ heroes for this. There’s Harvey Milk, who inspired generations as the first openly gay elected official in California. Marsha P. Johnson, a trans activist and key figure at Stonewall, who co-founded the Gay Liberation Front and fought for homeless youth. And of course, RuPaul Charles – a trailblazer for drag culture and queer representation in mainstream media.
4. Describe yourself in three words.
Determined, empathic, committed
5. What was the last conversation you had that made you think differently about something?
I recently talked with a colleague about how children are being failed by a lack of mental health support. The pandemic took a big toll, and teachers need to be given the right resources to make a difference.
6. Which TV show could you not live without?
It’s not a TV show, but I’m a big supporter of Liverpool FC. I’m lucky enough to catch a few matches in person each year, though tickets are as rare as hen’s teeth!
7. If you weren’t a firefighter, what would you be?
A musician! I have a degree in music and still play in bands. If I ever won the lottery, I’d spend my time travelling the world, playing and listening to live music.
8. If you could travel back or forward in time, where and when would you travel to and why?
I’d go back to the 60s, to watch The Beatles at the Cavern Club. It would be amazing to see them perform up close before they became a global phenomenon
