LGBT+ History Month: Learning, Celebrating, and Supporting Each Other

This month, our college is marking LGBT+ History Month — a time to recognise the history, achievements, and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and other LGBT+ people, both in the UK and around the world.

The theme for LGBT+ History Month this year is “Activism and Social Change”. This theme focuses on the people and movements that have challenged inequality, spoken up for others, and helped create positive change for LGBT+ communities.

Why LGBT+ History Month matters

For a long time, LGBT+ people were excluded from history books, media, and education. Their stories, achievements, and struggles were often hidden or ignored.

LGBT+ History Month helps to:

• Highlight LGBT+ people and their contributions to society

• Recognise the role of activism in creating change

• Challenge stereotypes and discrimination

• Celebrate diversity, identity, and individuality

  
  

Learning about LGBT+ history helps us understand why equality, visibility, and acceptance still matter today.

Activism and social change

Activism doesn’t always mean protests or campaigns. It can also mean:

• Speaking up when something isn’t right

• Supporting others and being an ally

• Creating safe and inclusive spaces

• Challenging prejudice through everyday actions

  
  

Many of the rights and protections LGBT+ people have today exist because individuals and communities were willing to stand up for fairness and change.

Our LGBT+ Society

We’re proud to have an LGBT+ Society at college — a welcoming and supportive space where students can:

• Meet others in a safe, inclusive environment

• Share experiences and support one another

• Take part in activities, discussions, and awareness events

• Help shape positive change across the college community

  
  

You don’t need to label yourself to attend — everyone is welcome. If you’re interested in getting involved email Emma.kehoe@blackpool.ac.uk for more information.

Support available at college

If anything around identity, relationships, or wellbeing feels difficult, support is available.

The College Wellbeing / Student Support Team is available during term time to listen, offer guidance, and help you access further support.

You don’t have to be struggling to reach out — sometimes it helps just to talk.

External support and information

There are also trusted organisations that offer free, confidential advice and support for young people:

• The Proud Trust – support for LGBT+ young people https://www.theproudtrust.org

• Stonewall – information on LGBT+ equality and rights https://www.stonewall.org.uk

• Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline – confidential listening support https://switchboard.lgbt

These services are there whether you want information, reassurance, or someone to listen.

A final note

LGBT+ History Month is about recognising the past, supporting each other in the present, and working towards a future where everyone can be themselves without fear or judgement.

If anything raised by this topic feels personal or emotional, it’s okay to take time — and it’s okay to ask for support.