The aim of LGBT+ History Month is to increase the visibility, history and experiences of the LGBT+ community around the world. Since 2011, the themes for each year have been related to the National Curriculum for England and Wales. The theme for 2021 is Body, Mind, Spirit.
Daniela Rusalim, LGBT+ Network member and NAWP Vice-President, said:
“The significance of LGBT+ History Month will vary from person to person, but it provides us all with an opportunity to look back and reflect on the strong determination and achievements of the members of the LGBT+ community, who have tirelessly fought for equality and acceptance. The last couple of decades have seen significant steps forward and changes in legislation and cultural perception that have allowed members of the LGBT+ community to live happier and more fulfilling lives. As a society and profession, we have come a long way, but let’s not stop here, because there is so much more to do to fight bias and discrimination. We need to continue to raise awareness, so let us all take this opportunity to increase the visibility of the LGBT+ community, celebrate their lives and experiences, and fight for equality and inclusion in the workplace and in everyday life.”
Despite the pandemic, LGBT+ History Month events are still taking place, though of course online rather than in person.
To celebrate the month, one PDA LGBT+ Network member has joined their local NHS LGBT+ staff network, which is holding an online Pride event. They are also attending a transgender support session online. Another network member is excited by the range of great online events at their workplace, with many relevant talks on interesting topics. They attended a ‘remote cinema’ night recently, where everyone watched the first episode of It’s a Sin together.
Related links
- The Forum for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Equality in Further and Higher Education along with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the unions PCS, UCU and UNISON produced a wallchart focusing on the UK which highlights important legal milestones and noteworthy contributions made by individuals, groups and especially the labour movement
- Find out about the PDA LGBT+ Network
- Catch up with the latest LGBT+ Network newsletter
Get involved
If you would like to get involved with the network and its activities, please email: lgbt@the-pda.org.
JOIN THE PDA LGBT+ NETWORK TODAY