Croydon joins in LGBT month celebrations

LGBT History Month

One of the displays on the exhibition. Pic: Matilda Keywood

February is UK LGBT month and Croydon is no exception, hosting many events which will celebrate the culture and achievements of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Croydon Library is currently hosting an exhibition which explores LGBT history. It features work by LGBT organisations in Croydon and local youth groups.

Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for communities, safety and justice in Croydon said: “There’s a long history of stigma being attached to anyone who is not heterosexual – but fortunately we are increasingly living in more enlightened times and there are fewer barriers for members of the LGBT community to overcome.

One of the works on display is a film created by LGBT youth group, The Bridge. A member of the group explained the purpose of the film, saying: “I hope that this film will teach professionals how to support LGBT and young people”.

Watson said: “There is still more prejudice and intolerance in the world than there should be, and events like these are designed to bring people together from all walks of life to recognise the fact that sexuality has nothing to do with ability or self-worth.”

This month is also for raising awareness of problems faced by the LGBT community.

Croydon Council said they will play their part “by joining in with a national celebration of the LGBT community and staging a string of events throughout February”

This year’s theme for the annual LGBT history month is religion, belief and philosophy.

The council, local venues and community groups have published a detailed events guide available on the Croydon Council website. Our pick of events can be found below.

Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People Day Conference

A day of talks, films and discussion aimed at professionals working with young people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning.

Monday February 22

9.30am-4.30pm

Seminar: Community arts, youth work and resilience

Booking required. Email communitymusiccroydon@ gmail.com. Town Hall Room F10

Monday February 22

5-7pm

Rainbow Reading Group

Rainbow Reading Group will be reading Carrington: A Life By Gretchen Holbrook Gerzina. Level One, Croydon Central Library.

Thursday February 25

2:30pm

Displays in Croydon Central Library

An exhibition in Croydon Central Library and a history month trail at the Museum of Croydon, both celebrating the lives and achievements of the LGBT community.

Tuesday February 23 – Saturday February 27

10:30am-5:30pm

There is also a film programme at the David Lean Cinema, with screenings of The Danish Girl, Grandma and Girl At My Door. Tickets available here.

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