Publish date: 4 February 2025
February is LGBTQ+ History Month and celebrates the achievements and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community throughout history. The theme for this year is “activism and social change,” which highlights the vital role that LGBTQ+ individuals have played in advocating for rights and social justice across various sectors.
LGBTQ+ History Month plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by the community while celebrating its diversity. It encourages dialogue around issues such as discrimination and equality while fostering a sense of belonging among individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
This annual event, organised by the UK charity Schools OUT, aims to educate people about significant historical events such as the Stonewall Riots and the ongoing struggles faced by the community. It serves as a reminder of how far society has come in terms of equality while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.
Following on from the very successful programme of Trans awareness training sessions delivered to around 160 clinical colleagues in October and November 2024, the training facilitators 'Unique' will be delivering a two hour webinar on MS Teams. It will centre around the work of the charity Unique itself, and the experiences of Trans people.
This session will provide a very rare opportunity to learn and gain such insights. The session would be for any colleague to attend and is not limited to colleagues who work in clinical services, as Unique offer advice and support to people who work in Human Resources and other legal / corporate domains. The lead facilitator Jenny-Anne Bishop OBE, has advised around health care to NHS England and NHS Wales, Parliament and many other bodies, for over 25 years.
To find out more, you can contact our Strategic EDI Lead joe.o’grady@merseycare.nhs.uk
You can access the link below, as there is no need to pre-book.
Unique Voices: Honouring the History and Legacy of the Unique Transgender Network, North Wales and TransForum Manchester:
The Unique Transgender Network in North Wales has been a beacon of hope, support, and empowerment for the transgender community for over 20 years. As we commemorate LGBT History Month, we honour the incredible journey and significant milestones achieved by Unique. These include support groups, a community house, partnership in designing and implementing the Welsh Gender Services, improved Welsh Trans cancer screening services, Trans equality and inclusion training, supporting Trans Prisoners etc.
The network has tirelessly worked to create safe spaces, offer vital resources, and advocate for the rights and visibility of transgender individuals. Their commitment to fostering an inclusive and understanding society has left an indelible mark on the region. Join us as we celebrate Unique's contributions, from groundbreaking advocacy efforts to heartfelt community initiatives, and explore the lasting legacy they have built for future generations".
The concept of LGBTQ+ History Month was initiated in 1994 by Rodney Wilson, a Missouri high school history teacher. His vision was to create a month-long celebration that would provide role models for LGBTQ+ youth and represent a civil rights statement regarding the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. Since its inception, it has grown into an internationally recognized event.
Trans people have always been part of our community and history. Being a good ally means supporting, listening, and standing up for trans rights. Here’s how you can help:
- Use correct names and pronouns – It’s a basic sign of respect.
- Challenge transphobia – Speak up when you hear discrimination.
- Educate yourself – Learn about trans history, issues, and experiences.
- Support trans voices – Follow, uplift, and advocate for trans people.
- Defend trans rights – Whether in conversation, at work, or in policy, stand for equality.
There is no LGBTQ+ without the T. This LGBTQ+ History Month let’s celebrate unity, inclusion, and respect for all. One step, one connection, one celebration at a time, we move closer to a world where everyone belongs.
- Alan Cumming - A Scottish actor and activist known for his work in raising funds for AIDS charities and his role in legalizing same-sex marriage in Scotland.
- Andrew Scott - An Irish actor recognized for his performances and advocacy, including a call to retire the phrase “openly gay” from media usage.
- Bella Ramsey - A young actor who has become an LGBTQ+ icon through their open discussions about gender and sexual identity, particularly noted for their role in HBO’s The Last of Us.
- Chloë Grace Moretz - An actress and activist who has campaigned against anti-gay conversion therapy and produced a series highlighting LGBTQ+ stories.
- Dan Levy - Co-creator and star of Schitt’s Creek, celebrated for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity and messages of acceptance.
The groundbreaking Channel 4 drama 'It’s a Sin' tragedy revealed the traumatic impact of the AIDS pandemic. Jo Henwood talks exclusively to its creator – and the woman whose compassion is a lesson to us all.
Continue reading in our MC Magazine.
