Royal Greenwich Highlights Contribution Of Local Members To Fight for LGBT Rights

by our RBG Correspondent | Woolwich

The experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people and their fight for rights are highlighted in a series of events to mark Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LBGT) History Month which begins today, 1 February.

The month of events also features the launch of a brand new historical archive detailing residents’ experiences – and local people are being encouraged to get involved.

The UK has seen a progression in the rights of LGBT people in recent decades – from the legalisation of homosexuality in the 1960s and same-sex marriage in England, Scotland and Wales in 2014, to transgender people having the right to change their legal gender recognised in law in 2005.

However in previous years, LGBT people have faced discrimination and violence, and often had to hide their true identities for their own safety. Despite the progress made, hate still crimes occur and the Royal Borough continues to work hard alongside the police to prevent and tackle such crimes.

During February, the Royal Borough is acknowledging the role of local members of the LGBT community - young and old - in contributing to the progression of LGBT rights. A new LGBT history archive is being set up collecting the experiences, histories, memories and reminiscences of LGBT people, particularly from older generations.

The Royal Borough is also working with partner organisations including Royal Museums Greenwich, Oxleas NHS Trust and the Metro Centre to bring a series of LGBT History Month celebrations and events to the borough. These include a film screening of ‘V For Vendetta’ at the Royal Observatory this Saturday, 6 February, and a day of talks, workshops and activities around identity at the National Maritime Museum on Saturday 20 February.

Cllr Denise Scott McDonald (right), the Royal Borough’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Creative Industries and Community Wellbeing said: “The Royal Borough is firmly committed to promoting equality and tackling discrimination wherever encountered.

“LGBT History Month will see celebrations and events take place across Royal Greenwich designed to recognise the contribution of those who have worked tirelessly to help cement the values of equality our local community enjoys today.

“It is important to celebrate but we must also acknowledge the work still to be done to protect the rights of LGBT people by offering support and challenging discrimination.

“I encourage residents to get involved with LGBT History Month and make sure their stories are documented and their contribution towards a society of greater equality is recognised.”

If you have a personal history and would like to share it, or get involved with LBGT History Month events, call 020 8921 3032.

For further info on LGBT History Month events, visit: www.rmg.co.uk/LGBT2016.

* The Woolwich Town Hall in front of which the

Rainbow Flag Flies. (Credit: RBG)