Actor Jonathan Bailey is using his platform to throw powerful support behind School Diversity Week, a nationwide initiative celebrating LGBT+ inclusion in schools, set to take place June 23–27 across the UK. Launched by the charity Just Like Us, the campaign aims to foster acceptance and inclusivity in primary and secondary schools — and Bailey says it’s exactly the kind of support he wishes he had growing up.
Bailey, best known for his breakout roles in Bridgerton and the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked alongside Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, has long been open about his sexuality and personal journey. Now 37, he reflects on how initiatives like this could have made a profound difference in his formative years.
“School Diversity Week is an extraordinary way to show young people that being yourself is not only OK, it’s celebrated,” Bailey said. “As a kid, I would have thrived in a school where LGBT+ people were openly included. To feel visible at such a young age is everything.”
A Message of Hope, Acceptance — and Celebration
Bailey emphasized that beyond awareness, the initiative brings joy and empowerment.
“It’s not just about education,” he added. “It’s about celebrating. This week gives students permission to embrace who they are, learn from one another, and enjoy a sense of belonging.”
Bailey’s support is more than symbolic. As a patron of Just Like Us, he’s been an active advocate for LGBT+ youth, previously lending his voice to campaigns alongside singer Jessie Ware and DJ Annie Mac. One such effort encouraged parents to speak out against homophobic language in classrooms and create safer, more accepting spaces in primary schools.
Championing the Next Generation
Laura Mackay, CEO of Just Like Us, praised Bailey’s ongoing commitment:
“Jonathan Bailey continues to be an incredibly powerful advocate for LGBT+ inclusion. School Diversity Week is our chance to build school environments where young people feel celebrated for who they are — not just tolerated. Every teacher and student participating is helping make this a reality.”
According to Just Like Us, LGBT+ youth in the UK still face disproportionate levels of bullying, isolation, and mental health challenges, especially in educational settings. Initiatives like School Diversity Week aim to dismantle these barriers by weaving diversity and acceptance into the fabric of daily school life.
More Than a Week – A Movement
The week-long celebration isn’t just about rainbow flags and awareness assemblies — it includes inclusive lesson plans, creative arts projects, film screenings, student-led panels, and guest speakers. Schools are encouraged to tailor the programming to suit their communities, making inclusion feel organic rather than obligatory.
Bailey hopes this work can pave the way for a cultural shift in how schools approach diversity.
“We’re not just fighting against discrimination — we’re building something better,” he said. “This is about ensuring that every child knows they belong. That their identity is something to be proud of.”
From the Stage to the Classroom
In Wicked, Bailey plays Prince Fiyero, a charming and rebellious character who defies expectations — not unlike Bailey himself, who continues to use his fame to disrupt norms and uplift others.
“The arts gave me a voice,” he said. “But school was the first stage I ever stood on. I want kids to know that they too can step into their truth confidently — and that they won’t be alone when they do.”
Get Involved
School Diversity Week runs from June 23 to 27. Schools, teachers, parents, and students can access free resources, toolkits, and activity ideas at justlikeus.org.
As Bailey puts it: “When schools celebrate diversity, they don’t just change classrooms — they change lives.”
