LGBT+ History Month is an annual observance that takes place in February in the United Kingdom. It is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people, as well as to raise awareness of the ongoing struggles and discrimination that they face. The month-long celebration is important because it helps to recognize the diversity and history of the LGBT+ community, and it provides an opportunity for people to come together and support one another. It also helps to educate people about the challenges that the LGBT+ community has faced and continues to face, and it can inspire people to work for greater acceptance and equality for LGBT+ people.
What is the theme for LGBT+ History month in 2023?
The LGBT+ History Month 2023 #BehindTheLens celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to cinema and film from behind the lens. Directors, cinematographers, screenwriters, producers, animators, costume designers, special effects, make-up artists, lighting directors, musicians, choreographers and beyond. At a time when LGBT+ lives are in the media, we also encourage you to look ‘Behind the Lens’ and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences. This theme also seeks to honour the resilience of LGBT+ people who have faced discrimination and violence yet still strive for visibility, acceptance, and equality. Through art, music, film, spoken word poetry, discussion groups and more, we can learn about the lived experiences of LGBT+ people over time that have shaped our world today. Celebrating Our Stories not only honours the achievements of members in our community but also serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done to create a more inclusive society for all.
How did LGBT+ History Month start?
What is the difference between LGBT+ History Month and Pride Month?
How does LGBT+ History month highlight that Protest is Power?
How has the LGBT+ community been erased in history?
Why is it important to raise awareness of Queer history?
It’s 2022, why are LGBT+ communities still being persecuted?
Who is affected by LGBT+ History month?
What is the role of an Ally to the LGBT+ communities?
What can organisations do to celebrate and raise awareness of LGBT+ history?
- Hosting events or educational workshops that focus on LGBT+ history and culture
- Displaying posters or other materials that highlight the achievements and contributions of LGBT+ people
- Featuring stories or profiles of LGBT+ people on the organization’s website or social media channels
- Partnering with local LGBT+ organizations to co-host events or provide resources and support
- Providing training or education on LGBT+ issues for staff and volunteers
- Adopting policies and practices that are inclusive and supportive of LGBT+ people.
Who are the famous queer people in the UK that are often forgotten?
- Maureen Duffy (1933-): Poet, novelist, and playwright known for her pioneering work in LGBT+ literature.
- Derek Jarman (1942-1994): Filmmaker, artist, and activist who was a leading figure in the queer liberation movement in the UK.
- Patrick Higgins (1880-1919): Playwright, poet, and artist who was one of the first British writers to openly address homosexuality in his work.
- Dora Carrington (1893-1932): Painter and designer who was part of the Bloomsbury Group and was known for her relationships with women.
- Edward Carpenter (1844-1929): Writer, philosopher, and activist who was a leading advocate for gay rights in the early 20th century.
What are the significant historical events in LGBT+ history in the UK?
- 1533: Henry VIII passes the Buggery Act, which made sex between men a criminal offence punishable by death.
- 1967: The Sexual Offences Act is passed, partially decriminalizing homosexuality between men over the age of 21 in England and Wales.
- 1982: The Gay Pride parade is held in London for the first time, marking the beginning of annual Pride celebrations in the UK.
- 1988: The UK government introduces the controversial Section 28, which prohibited the promotion of homosexuality in schools.
- 2000: The UK Parliament passes the Human Rights Act, which provides protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
- 2013: Same-sex marriage becomes legal in England and Wales, followed by Scotland in 2014 and Northern Ireland in 2020.
What is Section 28 and when was it revoked in the UK?
What does the LGBT+ acronym standard for
What hashtags should I use to promote LGBT+ History month?
- #LGBTHistoryMonth
- #LGBTQ
- #LGBT
- #QueerHistory
- #LGBTQHistory
- #PrideMonth
- #Equality
- #BehindTheLens
How can my organisation avoid “pinkwashing” or “rainbow washing” in during LGBT+ History month?
- Educate themselves about the history and experiences of the LGBT+ community, and make sure that their actions are grounded in an understanding of the challenges and discrimination that LGBT+ people face.
- Engage with the LGBT+ community and listen to their perspectives and concerns. This can help to ensure that any initiatives or activities are inclusive and respectful and that they are addressing the needs and priorities of the community.
- Take concrete and meaningful action to support the LGBT+ community. This can include things like providing resources, funding, or support for LGBT+ organizations, advocating for inclusive policies, and challenging discrimination and prejudice wherever it occurs.
- Be transparent and accountable. Organizations should be open and honest about their efforts to support the LGBT+ community, and they should be willing to listen to feedback and make changes as needed.