Thursday 26-01-2023 - 16:30

February marks LGBT History Month in the UK, which is a month-long celebration and awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (and other identities) history and rights.

The United Kingdom commemorates the history of the community annually every February – which first took place in 2005 in wake of the abolishment of Section 28.

Section 28 was a controversial amendment to UK law that “prohibited the promotion of homosexuality” mainly within mainstream media and education.

Section 28 was finally abolished in Scotland in 2000 and later abolished in the UK in 2003.

 

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Get involved at The Union

 

If you fancy getting involved in LGBT+ History Month at The Union as a member of the community, or just as an ally, check out the events and activities below.

 

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LGBT+ Support Cards

 

Throughout February, you’ll spot LGBT+ support cards dotted around the building.

These cards are free for you to grab, write a message of support on, and pop one in the drop-off box located at reception.

Throughout the month we’ll be putting these cards on display around reception to display your support, so keep an eye out.

 

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Badge Making Session

 

Feeling creative?

The Union are hosting an LGBT+ themed badge making session for you to get those creative juices flowing.

You don’t need to worry about bringing anything along with you, everything is provided by us.

Just bring yourself over to rooms 6&7 at The Union on Wednesday 1 Feb from 14:00 – 16:00.

 

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LGBT+ Walking Tour

 

Manchester’s got a wealth of history, especially LGBT+ history.

From the iconic Gay Village to some of the city’s most notable LGBT+ friendly venues and music spots.

To get involved in either of the free walking tours, come along to The Union’s reception on 7 February at 13:45, or 14 February at 13:45.

 

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Air Dry Clay Making Session

 

This month’s Feel Good Friday theme is ‘Love Is For Everyone’, and as part of this month’s celebrations, The Union are hosting an LGBT+ themed clay making session.

Get involved with artist Ben Saunders, where he’ll teach you how to sculpt a theme-friendly sculpture using air dry clay at The Union’s Mezzanine on 17 February, from 16:30 – 17:30.

This event is free but spaces are limited, so make sure you book your free ticket to avoid missing out.

 

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LGBT+ Clothes Swap

 

Come along to The Union’s Conference Suite on 21 February from 12:00 – 17:00 to swap some of your old items for some new preloved ones.

There’s absolutely no judgement at this event, swap whatever clothes you want and pick up whatever clothes you want, regardless of gender identity.

 

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LGBT+ Zine Making Session

 

Join us at The Union (in rooms 6 & 7) to celebrate LGBT History Month in a Zine Making Workshop with Pen Fight Distro.

Pen Fight is a queer and feminist zine and book shop, and tiny press. Selling zines, new and second-hand radical books, badges, art, and more.

From 15:00 – 17:00 on 21 February, get involved in making your very own zine and letting your creativity flourish.