February is LGBT+ History Month, and we at Mildmay Mission Hospital want to express our immense pride in supporting this significant event.
We believe in the power of diversity and inclusivity and are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The 2024 theme celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to the field of Medicine and Healthcare both historically and today. We celebrate the rich history and contributions of the LGBT+ community and stand in solidarity with them. We're reminded of the importance of creating a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental healthcare environment for everyone.
At a time when the LGBT+ community is experiencing a rise in hate crime and hate instances, we also encourage you to look ‘Under the Scope’ and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences from LGBT+ people.
The charity Stonewall says:
“This year, we’re all gearing up for the chance to have our voices heard in the general election. We’re fighting to get a ban on conversion therapy and protect our community – after five years of broken promises from the current UK Government.
"We’re working to protect LGBTQ-inclusive education so another generation of young people doesn’t have to grow up feeling unsafe and excluded.
Having our say has never been so important. 2024 is a pivotal year. Let’s make it one that we can look back on with pride. “
February has been designated as LGBT+ History Month in the UK, despite the celebration taking place in October in the US. The month was chosen to coincide with the abolition of Section 28, legislation introduced by Margaret Thatcher's Conservative government that said local authorities must not “intentionally promote homosexuality”. It was in effect from 1988 to 2000 in Scotland and from 1988 to 2003 in England and Wales. It caused many organisations, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender student support groups, to close, limit their activities or self-censor.
LGBT+ History Month is for everyone, whether you work in education, a museum, a library or an art gallery, a business, a service, or are a member of a network/social group or an individual. It was founded in 2004 by Schools OUT UK co-chairs Paul Patrick and Professor Emeritus Sue Sanders and was first celebrated in February 2005.
For so long, LGBT+ people’s history was hidden; following the repeal of Section 28, UK LGBT+ History Month was created to:
claim our past
celebrate our present
create our future
Every year, Schools OUT sets a different theme for LGBT+ History Month and provides free resources for education settings, businesses, services and organisations to help them celebrate and ‘Usualise’ LGBT+ lives in their full diversity.
Join us in honouring the past, celebrating the present, and working towards a future where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.