Get involved with LGBTQ+ History Month activities across February

February marks the 20th annual LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning) History Month, and the Council and partners are bringing residents a range of inclusive events to get involved in. From family activities at our libraries, to Charlton Athletic’s Football v Homophobia match, organisations across the borough will be showing their support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “This year’s theme is ‘Activism and Social Change’. The LGBTQ+ community have used activism to push for social change throughout history, and this month is an opportunity for us to celebrate each of those people who have fought to make the world a better place for us all.
“By learning about each other’s history, we can continue to ensure that Royal Greenwich is a welcoming and inclusive place.”
This year’s schedule includes:
Out at Sea festival of LGBTQ+ History
Royal Museums Greenwich, Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 February, various times, free except ‘Fierce Queens’
Throughout half term week, learn about LGBTQ+ maritime history through arts and crafts sessions, drag story time and aerobics, Queer History Night, performances from Rainbows Across Borders choir (all free) and Fierce Queens fashion show (£16 per adult, £13 per student).
Charlton Athletic’s Football V Homophobia matchday
Saturday 22 February, The Valley, 3pm, various prices
Charlton and its Community Trust will host the club's annual Football v Homophobia match day.
The match is in partnership with the Proud Valiants, the club’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, Charlton Invicta, the club’s affiliated LGBTQ+ inclusive team, and club partner the University of Greenwich. This year’s themed match is the Addick's men’s first-team fixture against Exeter City.
Storytime with Mama G
Tuesday 25 February, Woolwich Centre Library, 10.30am and Greenwich Centre Library, 2pm, Thursday 27 February, Eltham Centre Library, 11am and Blackheath Library, 2pm, free
Britain’s Got Talent star Mama G returns to libraries with family story time about being who you want and loving who you are.
METRO: Screening and Discussion of LGBTQ+ Youth Films
Tuesday 26 February, 6 to 9pm, QUEERCIRCLE, Building 4, 3 Barton Yard, Soames Walk, Design District, SE10 0BN, free
METRO Charity has advocated for diverse and inclusive mental and sexual health, youth, and community support since the eighties, from being on the frontlines of Section 28 protests to launching the first community-based HIV/STI testing clinic in London. Join them to celebrate their history and watch and discuss two landmark films made by LGBTQ+ youth.
This event is part of Out From the Centre: A Tribute to 40 Years of LGBTQ+, Disability & HIV Activism series of workshops and exhibitions.
All month
- Displays, reading groups and weekly craft sessions at Royal Greenwich libraries will focus on LGBTQ+ history.
Find out what's on near you this LGBTQ+ History Month.
If you’re holding a public event this LGBTQ+ History Month in Royal Greenwich, let local people know by submitting it to our online events calendar.