LGBT+ History Month: Hackney mayor hopes ‘people of every identity feel represented’ as borough’s celebrations get underway

Hackney Mayor Philip Glanville and Cllr Carole Williams

Hackney Council has announced a variety of events and activities for February’s LGBT+ History Month – including a huge talent showcase from disability charity ParaPride.

LGBT+ History Month launched in 2005 and shines a light on the experiences of LGBT+ people, as well as promoting their wellbeing and raising awareness of issues affecting the community.

This year’s local programme features walks led by Queer Tours of London, zine-making and films with Queer China UK, an exhibition and readings at Hackney Archives, a stage show by Arcola Theatre’s Queer Collective, ParaPride’s talent show, and more.

Mayor of Hackney Philip Glanville said: “In Hackney we believe LGBTQIA+ history should be remembered and celebrated all year round, but this month gives us an opportunity to focus on learning, educating, raising awareness and giving visibility to Hackney’s LGBTQIA+ communities, both past and present.

“I want to say a big thank you to everyone involved. I hope that more people of every generation and identity will see stories that mirror their experience, that they feel more represented, know where to go for help, and feel safe enough to participate in future LGBTQIA+ projects with the council.”

The February line-up is supported by a £6,000 grant from the Hackney Pride365 arts and culture initiative.

Town Hall equalities lead, Cllr Carole Williams, said: “Hackney is proud of its reputation for being an open and inclusive borough, in which people of different gender identities, nationalities, ethnicity and sexuality can safely and happily call home.

“As well as being fun and educational, the programme of Hackney Pride365 events for LGBT+ History Month promotes the valuable work of Hackney’s LGBTQIA+ organisations and helps showcase Hackney’s strong history of empowering diverse communities and effecting positive change.”

Tickets for ParaPride 2023 at Hackney Town Hall are available at eventbrite.co.uk/e/parapride-2023-making-lgbtq-history-tickets-480876954917.

You can see the full calendar of LGBT+ History Month events at lovehackney.uk/lgbt-history-month.