Think, instead, of racer Danny Watts. While he didn’t come out as gay while actively competing, Watts’ well-respected role in the world of motorsport and the incredible outpouring of support that followed showed that the racing community is changing. Being an LGBTQ+ person in a traditionally male, heteronormative environment is no longer quite the taboo that it once was. Even the simple act of wishing the best for Danny Watts opens up the possibility of inclusivity for racers, fans, and more.

Advertisement

After all, Martin emphasizes that the LGBTQ+ community is for everyone.

“Pride is initiated by the LGBT community, but it isn’t exclusively for or about them. It’s an opportunity for society at large to create an inclusive environment to let everyone live without fear.”

Advertisement

Essentially, it’s not just the duty of members of the LGBTQ+ community to represent themselves. It’s up to all of us—fans and drivers, gay and straight, transgender and cisgender alike—to work together to ensure that the racing community is a welcoming place for everyone. After all, our passion is the reason why we’re all here.

“Ultimately, having drivers in a high level who are willing to speak out and say positive things about creating that inclusive environment will help create that inclusive environment. Saying something heartfelt and personal—not just a PR stunt—will send the right message out to people at large, that discrimination won’t and shouldn’t be tolerated.”

Advertisement

That’s why Martin is taking the first steps. Such open displays of acceptance and inclusivity are rare in racing—and Martin broke the barrier with something as simple but wonderfully effective as her pride stickers. For her, it’s only the beginning. It should only be the beginning for the rest of us, too.

Advertisement

This is only the beginning for Charlie Martin. Her dreams are big, but her ambition to conquer her goals is even bigger.

Her current outing in the Ginetta series is a one-year stepping stone into greater things. Martin hopes that endurance racing is on the horizon, hoping to make her debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans within five years.

Advertisement

But activism goes hand-in-hand with racing for Martin. She hopes her relationship with Stonewall will blossom into an ongoing project to reach a wider audience. In the meantime, she still plans on promoting awareness and positivity for trans folks and the LGBTQ+ community at large while also exploring a career in TV presenting to help create visibility as well as to indulge in something she loves.

Advertisement

Her mountain is waiting, and she’s well on her way.