This February, our staff and students are celebrating LGBT+ History Month, a time of year which aims to increase the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, as well as uncover previously untold stories. Read on to learn more and find out what activities we have in store.
What is LGBT+ History Month?
The month was founded in 2004 by Schools OUT UK with the aim to promote awareness of the issues faced by LGBTQ+ people. A main focus of the month is to promote inclusivity whilst also educating young people on the history and importance of LGBTQ+ people.
LGBT+ History Month takes place in February each year as this marked the month in 2003 when Section 28 of the 1988 Local Government Act was abolished. At the time this act prevented local authorities from promoting homosexuality or material that was intended to do so.
Why is LGBT+ History Month important?
LGBT+ History month celebrates the important lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and non-binary history. It also provides roles models and support for young people whilst drawing attention to the history of the civil rights movement within the LGBTQ+ Community. This month is also a good time to remember the remember the struggles faced to gain rights, whilst also thinking of those people around the world without the rights. Many countries within the world still don’t have the same rights as us in the UK.
What’s the theme for 2024?
Every year LGBT+ History Month has a theme, this year is Medicine – #UnderTheScope.
The 2024 theme celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to the field of Medicine and Healthcare both historically and today.
What are Confetti doing to mark LGBT+ History Month?
LGBT+ Walking Tour of Nottingham – Wednesday 7 February
If you want to get involved, please contact: LGBTQPLUS@confetti.ac.uk
LGBT+ Open Discussion – Tuesday 20 & Thursday 22 February
An opportunity for our students to talk about topics and issues related to the LGBT+ community, for example gender neutral toilets. These events will take place 12.30-1.45pm in the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) Collaboration Space.
Student-led LGBT+ panel show – Monday 26 February:
Our staff and students will produce and film a TV panel show exploring issues related to the LGBT+ community. Hosted by our Confetti Personal Development and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (PDEDI) Officers, Jamie Radford and Dennis Davis, the show will feature Confetti college and degree students from the LGBT+ community. Participants will share insights on their experiences and give their thoughts on a range of issues, including this year’s LGBT+ History Month theme: Medicine – #UnderTheScope.
If you would like to get involved in any of these activities, please contact our PDEDI Officers, Dennis.Davis@confetti.ac.uk and Jamie.Radford@confetti.ac.uk
