LGBT+ History Month 2021
February again marks LGBT+ History Month and for 2021 the theme is Body, Mind, Spirit.
LGBT History Month is an annual celebration that provides education and insight into the issues faced by members of the LGBT+ community with the aim to combat prejudice and discrimination. It has taken place each February since 2005 in the UK and observes lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements.
The event is being marked at many businesses and organisations across the Westcountry. Wiltshire Police have raised the rainbow flag at their Headquarters in Devizes today. Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said: “Raising this flag is just one way Wiltshire Police can show its support for the LGBT+ community within the county. More so than ever before, we should celebrate our differences within the very diverse communities and support each other – not use them to incite hatred. “Only by raising awareness, and our Force reaching out to and reflecting the community it serves, can we truly affect change and acceptance in our society. That is why I am delighted to be able to raise this flag in 2021.”
Wiltshire Council are also marking the month by raising the flag outside of their main headquarters, County Hall in Trowbridge.
In Bristol, several events are planned around the city including a talk on Muslim views on queer relationships over time at the city’s M Shed on the 4th February , and on 10th February a look at the life of Michael Dillon. More information on these events can be found on the Visit Bristol Website.
Bristol’s mayor Marvin Rees has given his blog over to Daryn Carter MBE from Bristol Pride who reflects on the month, it’s history and some of the events happening around the city.
Meanwhile in Bath, you can find out more about the history of Bath’s LGBT+ community, along with the history of local organisations that have offered support and undertaken LGBT+ campaigns in the Bath area. The virtual tour will take place on 25th February from 6p.m. to 7p.m and will be led by Robert Howes from Gay West. To register in advance for this webinar visit: https://bathnes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IHjX-ykcRp-nzf1xQuvZRg
Bath and North East Somerset Libraries will be signposting inclusive novels and e-Audiobooks throughout the month. Visit their Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to find your next great read.
