What is LGBT+ History Month?

LGBT+ 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 LGBT+ people, their history, lives, and experiences.

LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. 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.

*The term used to describe someone who identifies with the gender they were assigned at birth, the opposite of transgender.

Awareness and education need to be raised on LGBT+ matters so that all institutions can be considered safe spaces for the community. This year’s national theme “Behind the Lens” gives a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the lives and professional accomplishments of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans icons, many of whom work in the limelight in photography and filmmaking, TV, music, and fashion.

Learning resources

Interested in learning more this LGBT+ History Month? The below articles cover some key events from history which helped, or hindered, the path to progression.