LGBT+ History Month

What is LGBT+ History Month?

LGBT+ History Month is an annual celebration that provides education and insight into the issues faced by the LGBT+ community and works to combat prejudice against them, it takes place each February in the UK. 
The LGBT+ History Month 2023 theme is #BehindTheLens and celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to cinema and film from behind the lens. Directors, cinematographers, screen writers, producers, animators, costume designers, special effects, makeup artists, lighting directors, musicians, choreographers and beyond. At a time when LGBT+ lives are in the media we also encourage you to look ‘Behind the Lens’ and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences. This page is a virtual celebration of our LGBT+ history as well as featuring all you need to know about in-person and virtual LGBT+ History Month celebrations at the University of Plymouth and beyond.

Why celebrate it?

LGBT+ History is often hidden within our society, culture and institutions due to homophobic and transphobic laws of the past as well as discriminatory and prejudiced attitudes today and so we need to uncover and celebrate LGBT+ history whenever we can as the better we understand our past, the brighter our future. It is thanks to brave queer people in the LGBT civil rights movement, particularly trans women and queer people of colour, that we have many of the rights we take for granted today and LGBT+ History Month is our opportunity to shine a light on those stories and celebrate their legacy. 

Learn about LGBT+ history and culture

LGBT+ Staff Network

Our LGBT+ Staff Network is our longest-standing and one of our largest staff networks and they warmly welcome new members throughout the year for social events, professional development and confidential support. Membership is confidential and any LGBT+ member of University or UPSU staff can join.

Become an LGBT+ Ally!

 Are you passionate about supporting your LGBT+ colleagues and students? If you identify as heterosexual and/or cisgender but still want to help the University of Plymouth address LGBT+ equality then you may wish to join our vibrant LGBT+ Allies Network!

Take part in an upcoming event

<p>Rainbow books<br></p>
Explore LGBT+ titles at the university library
<p>Carol movie. LGBT+ history month&nbsp;</p>
UoP Mental Health Team & LGBT+ Staff Network film night: Carol (2015)
<p>Paper cut outs of colourful people</p>
Discover the newly revamped EDI LGBT+ Toolkit
<p>LGBTQ written on wooden squares&nbsp;</p>
Free online panel: Tales from LGBT+ History
<p>plymouth pride hoe</p>

LGBT+ Inclusion

Discrimination and harassment on the grounds of sexual orientation or transgender status are unacceptable and not tolerated at the University of Plymouth. We aim to create an environment that welcomes all and celebrates everyone for who they are. 
We are a proud Stonewall Diversity Champion, we sponsor Plymouth Pride in August every year and host Pride on Campus every May along with the Students Union. As well as this we are here to offer practical support and guidance to all LGBT+ staff and students.