LGBT+ History Month 2024: When is it, how did it start and what events are there in London?

This year is the 19th anniversary of LGBT+ History Month – here is how you can get involved next month
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LGBT+ History Month is about to begin and up and down the country LGBTQ+ people and allies are coming together under the rainbow flag.

There has never been greater visibility for queer people, so the month is an opportunity to celebrate them.

This year the theme will be Medicine – Under the Scope and will focus on the contribution that has been made to the world of medicine and healthcare, historically and today, by people who identify as LGBT+.

Overall, the event will continue to look back at the moments that shaped the community and see where much-needed improvements must still be made, as well as celebrating how far the community has come.

Charity Stonewall said: “This year, we’re all gearing up for the chance to have our voices heard in the general election. We’re fighting to get a ban on conversion therapy and protect our community – after five years of broken promises from the current UK Government.  

"We’re working to protect LGBTQ-inclusive education, so another generation of young people doesn’t have to grow up feeling unsafe and excluded. 

Having our say has never been so important. 2024 is a pivotal year. Let’s make it one that we can look back on with pride.“

Here is what we know about what is going on.

What is LGBT+ History Month and who started it?

LGBT+ History Month is a month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer history. It helps to raise awareness about the issues faced by LGBTQ+ people. 

The month was started in the US in 1994 to coincide with National Coming Out Day. It was taken up in the UK in 2005 by teachers Sue Sanders and Paul Patrick as part of the Schools OUT UK project, which educates young people on issues faced by queer communities.

Its primary focus is teaching young people about the gay rights movement and working to put a stop to homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. 

The theme for 2024

Organisers said they want to focus on the world of medicine for 2024 and celebrate the great strides made by those who identify as LGBT+.

They said: “We want to showcase the amazing work of LGBT+ staff across the NHS and in other healthcare settings, in providing healthcare, especially during the pandemic. Whilst still shining a light on the history of the LGBT+ community’s experience of receiving healthcare which has been extremely complicated, leaving LGBT+ people still facing health inequalities even today.

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“At a time when the LGBT+ community is experiencing a rise in hate crime and hate instances we also encourage you to look Under the Scope and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences from LGBT+ people.”

When is LGBT+ History Month taking place?

February has been designated as LGBT+ History Month in the UK, despite the celebration taking place in October in the US. The month was chosen to coincide with the abolition of Section 28, a law that said local authorities must not “intentionally promote homosexuality”. 

The event will run from February 1 to February 29.

How is the UK observing LGBT+ History Month?

A plethora of events are taking place across the country throughout February and organisers are still putting together lists. So if you are planning something and want people to know, you are encouraged to get in touch with the LGBT+ organisers.

For the full list of events or to find out how to add your own, visit the webpage here.

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