February is LGBT+ History Month

At LJMU, inclusivity is at the core of our values and this month we’ll be sharing many of the voices from our LGBT+ community. 

Here, our LJMU Equality team has round up what’s going on across the city, university and JMSU, so whether you are part of the LGBT+ community or an ally, you can get involved... 

Join the LGBT+ staff network here at LJMU 

Following the LGBT+ staff network’s programme of activities in 2021, this year the network is focusing on reflection and community building, as many of us return to on-campus or hybrid working. 

If you’re an LGBT+ member of staff and would like to join the network, please get in touch with the EDI team or network Chair(s) here. 

Keep an eye out on LJMU’s social feeds over the coming month where LJMU Staff Network co-chair, Dr Bee Hughes, will be talking to us about personal pronouns and why they matter. 

Events for students 

JMSU will be hosting a range of events across the month for students including a Movie Night, Ally Workshop and Bingo Night. Find out more about the events here.  

They’ve also put together a helpful LGBT+ glossary, to explain the definitions of some terms often used in relation to sexuality, gender and identity. 

What’s happening across the city 

National Museums Liverpool are marking the month with a range of events and a new online content hub. This includes the untold stories of LGBT+ people across Liverpool, like Christian Owens, who transitioned whilst working in Merseyside Police Force. 

Our LJMU Equality team interviewed Christian back in November 2021, which you can watch here: 

So why is LGBT+ History Month so important? Dr Bee Hughes (they/them/theirs), Co Chair of the LGBT+ Staff Network and Lecturer in Media, Culture and Communications said: “LGBT+ history month is an important point of reflection and visibility, and learn more about the people, places, and events that have shaped our understanding of ourselves."

The LGBT+ History Month website also has a wealth of resources including inclusive reading lists and assets available too.