LGBTQ+ History Month is celebrated each year in February across the UK. The event is honoured this month to coincide with the abolition of Section 28 in 2003, which prohibited the “promotion” of homosexuality. The month aims to increase the visibility of LGBTQ+ people, their history, lives, and experiences.
LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer. The ‘plus’ exists because there are many other ways in which people choose to define themselves that do not conform to straight and cisgender. Because the labels people choose to describe themselves can be fluid and often new terms and identities are added, the ‘plus’ encompasses all other identities.
Awareness and education need to be raised on LGBTQ+ matters so that all institutions can be considered safe spaces for the community. This year’s national theme “Activism and Social Change” gives a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the lives and professional accomplishments of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans icons, many of whom have dedicated their lives to being activists and help shape and create social change, advancing society for everyone using many different approaches to activism.