LGBTQ+ HISTORY MONTH EVENTS
By Reform Radio
on Mon Feb 19 2024
February marks LGBTQ+ History Month, an annual observation of queer history, including the gay rights and related civil rights movements. In the UK, this yearly reclaiming of history has been recognised since 2005, following the repeal of Section 28 in British law. Section 28 was a series of laws which banned authorities and organisations from ‘promoting homosexuality’, initiated in 1988.
Join us in honouring LGBTQ+ history, acknowledging the present, and creating a better future for the queer community this February. We have curated a list of events across Manchester to attend in recognition of the momentous month. Check them out below.
Out in the World – An Irish Diaspora Exhibition
Open Everyday in February
Central Library, St Peter’s Square, Manchester
Across the generations, Irish LGBTQ+ people have emigrated and found opportunities to live and love abroad. EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, in partnership with the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, are proud to play a role in illuminating this hidden history of Irish emigration. This free exhibition, highlights 12 stories from the vast, yet largely untold, history of Ireland’s LGBTQ+ diaspora. Drop in anytime within the library’s opening hours – entry is completely free.
21st February – 11AM-6PM
Contact Theatre, Oxford Rd, Manchester
Are you an LGBTQ+ artist, creative, company, community group, producer, programmer, venue or festival? Join the LGBT Foundation, Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Arts and Culture Network, and LGBTQ+ creatives from across the UK for a day of discussion, provocation and inspiration. Through the likes of panels, presentations, performances and workshops, explore issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities. Lunch will also be provided so book your ticket now!
LGBTQ+ History Month Walking Tour of Manchester
22nd February – 5.30-9PM
Meeting Point: Vimto Sculpture, Vimto Park, Manchester
Take a journey through various sites of historical significance to Manchester’s queer community with an expert tour guide. Lasting approximately 90 minutes, the walk will conclude at Kampus, just opposite the renowned Canal Street, to complete the evening with refreshments and networking.
23rd February – 8PM-5AM
Partisan Club, Islington Mill, James Street, Manchester
Brace yourself for this collaboration of Manchester’s greatest queer club nights and cabaret. Snogtown and Fatty Acid present Snoggy Acid, a night of unmissable entertainment, queer speed dating, and DJs.
24th February – 11AM-12.45PM
People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Manchester
Talk to the PHM’s expert Archive Team about how their LGBTQ+ collection continues to grow everyday. Explore archives including Lesbians and Gays Supporting Miners, papers of Michael Steed, former chairman of the Campaign for Homosexual Equality, and more. This is the perfect opportunity to understand how the collection is still used by communities, researchers, and individuals to explore the social and political stories of the past.
LGBTQ History Month Question Time
26th February – 6.30PM-8.15PM
Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount St, Manchester
Manchester City Council are hosting a question time event to mark this year’s LGBTQ+ History Month. Hear from a diverse panel of speakers representing the local government, public health, voluntary sector and the creative arts. You will also have your opportunity to ask them questions. If you would like to submit a question in advance for the panel, please include this on the sign up form above.
LGBTQ+ Film Screening: Remembering the Day Manchester Said NO to Section 28
28th February – 12PM-1PM
SODA, 14 Higher Chatham Street, Manchester
Manchester Metropolitan University is holding a special screening of an exclusive film which recorded the events of the 20th February, 1988. On this day, over 20,000 people took to the streets of Manchester to reject Margaret Thatcher’s Section 28. Taking place in the ground floor cinema of SODA, this event gives people the opportunity to not only see the footage, but to also discuss its relevance today. You will be joined by Paul Fairweather MBE. Paul is a former Manchester councillor, long-time LGBTQ+ rights activist, and one of the organisers of the 1988 protest.
Under Your Nose Film Screening
28th February – 6-9PM
Kanaris Theatre, Manchester Museum, Oxford Road, Manchester
Head along to this documentary screening of ‘Under Your Nose‘. This documentary, depicts the story of the Black Lesbian and Gay Centre which was formed in 1985 South London. The documentary’s director and producer Veronica McKenzie will join the screening for a post-viewing Q&A session.
Send us your Manchester LGBTQ+ History Month events on Instagram and we will add them to our list.