LGBTQ+ History Month

LGBTQ+ History Month takes place across the UK every February to recognise and celebrate the history, achievements and cultures of LGBTQ+ communities and individuals. The University of Birmingham offers an exciting and diverse programme of events with all students, staff and the wider community warmly invited to join us in celebrating and commemorating LGBTQ+ history. 

The theme for 2025 is Activism and Social Change - #SocialActivism. More than ever, this theme highlights the ongoing fight for equality for these communities and celebrates the important milestones which have been reached. We want to showcase and pay tribute to the amazing work of individuals and groups who have contributed to social change and highlight ongoing campaigns. 

At Birmingham we celebrate our diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment in which all members of the University can flourish. We are delighted to support LGBTQ+ History Month, which is an important component of our Equality Programme. We will continue to raise awareness of issues facing LGBTQ+ members of our community, as well as celebrating their significant contributions and achievements.

Professor Stephen Jarvis, Provost and Vice-Principal

How can I get involved?

There are lots of ways to support LGBTQ+ History Month events at Birmingham. Please attend as many events as you can and encourage others to do the same. If you are not a member, consider joining the Rainbow Network or joining the LGBTQ+ Allies Scheme. 

Finally this is a great time to get inspired and think about putting on your own event as part of the programme for next year.  Please share details of your event via the event submission form. 

Programme of events

 Date Time Event
 3 - 9 February  evenings Look out for Old Joe's colour change for the whole week! He'll be wearing a rainbow to mark LGBTQ history month with pride
3 - 28 February All day Find our illuminating display in Main Library all month! Learn more about LGBTQ+ activism and grab a badge to show your pride 
3 February 17:00 - 19:00 Queer Film Series: Conversion Therapy + But I'm A Cheerleader (1999)
4 February 12:00 - 13:30 (new allies) LGBTQ ally workshop
10 February 14:00 - 16:00 Amelia B. Edwards: The Queen of Egyptology
12 February 12:00 - 13:00

Ignite the Spark: LGBTQ+ Activism Unleashed!

Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month with the Student EDI Team  as we delve into the inspiring stories of our panel of LGBTQ+ activists and social changers. 

12 February 14:00 - 16:00 Trans and Non-Binary Social - students
12 February 19:00 - 22:00 LGBTQ+ History Month Public Lecture Bowie Love
18 February 12:00 - 13:30 Developing exisiting alliship (topic tbc) LGBTQ ally workshops
18 February 16:00 - 17:00

LGBTQ Activism and Social Change in Birmingham

Curious about the history of LGBTQ activism and social change in Brum? Join this event to learn about the rich history of activism in Birmingham. 

19 February 14:00 - 16:00 Queer collaging with Joe Brainard – creativity and community
19 February 17:00 - 19:00 Queer Film screening: 120 beats per minute
20 February 18:00 - 19:30

Ginny Lemon: in conversation

Ginny Lemon is an extremely successful drag performer and recording artist, best known for competing on the second series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK and for performing at the 2022 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony. 

28 February 18:30 - 20:30 LGBTQ+ Film Night
5 March 13:00 - 14:40

Meet the author - Queer as Folklore: The Hidden Queer History of Myths and Monsters

Join us as we explore the evolution of folklore, highlighting the cultural significance of monsters and mythical beings and how these are entwined with LGBTQ+ histories.