Welcome to LGBTQ+ History month with QMSU! LGBTQ+ History Month, since its first observance in 2005, has sought to celebrate queer people’s existence throughout all of human history. It is a time to recognise the contributions of queer people and their communities towards progress in all areas, particularly how LGBTQ+ people have bettered society with their work and lives. It also aims to address the discrimination and oppression experienced by LGBTQ+ people throughout history and today and showcase activists from the past and present who have tirelessly fought for the queer community. We are invited to learn from the past to inform our continued efforts in the struggle for queer rights throughout the world and in the celebration of the diversity and beauty within the queer community.
The theme of LGBTQ+ History Month this year is ‘Science and innovation’; there will be focus on the many achievements and contributions of queer people in the field of science and innovation throughout history and how diversity within scientific teams leads to success. On the other hand, the theme provokes conversation about the harm that the scientific community has inflicted upon LGBTQ+ people through the pathologising and dehumanising of queer identities and people; reminding us that empathy and listening to the experience of others should be a key part of the process of change to ensure that science and innovation are a force for good in the world.
At QMSU we are celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month with students at the centre. Key events include an National Aids Trust Fundraising Gala hosted in the Old Library and Extravaganza: an LGBTQ+ History Month Bar Night. Other events will include a crafts and coffee event, sexual health talks, a student and staff mixer and more. All events are open to members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies and aim to be accessible to everyone! Also keep your eye out for 28 icons in 28 days on instagram @qmbllgbtrep
We can't wait to see you there!
Sarina Allan, LGBTQ+ History Month Community Organiser