The Cheltenham LGBT partnership are looking for members of the local community who would like to be involved in their celebration of International Day against Homophobia, clinic Biphobia and Transphobia on Tuesday 17 May.
The day represents a time to draw the attention of decision makers, prescription the media, the public, opinion leaders and local authorities to the alarming situation faced by lesbian, gay, bisexuals, transgender and intersex people and all those who do not conform to majority sexual and gender norms.
May 17 is now celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal. These mobilisations unite millions of people in support of the recognition of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
The theme for the day will be surrounding the LGBT heritage of Cheltenham as well as wider discussion and debate, to join in with the global conversation on the day. As part of this the LGBT partnership would like hear from anyone whom has any information surrounding the LGBT history of our town that they would be happy to share.
Did you know?
– Both Sir James Agg Gardener, the longest serving MP in British history, and Charles Irvine, Conservative MP for Cheltenham, were homosexual.
– During the 1970s our town was one of a small number of places outside of London that had a Gay Liberation Front group and a campaign for Homosexual equality group also.
– Gloucestershire Gay and Lesbian community group who are a member of our partnership are the oldest surviving LGBT support and social group in the country.
Lillie Rowe, chair of the LGBT Partnership from Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “Cheltenham has a vibrant and varied LGBT heritage and any information about this, which could be used to form a fantastic celebration, would be welcomed.
“Perhaps you yourself were a member of one of these groups, or know someone who was? Maybe you are well versed in the history of Cheltenham’s Members of parliament. Whatever it is we would be happy to hear from you.”
Cllr Rowena Hay, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles, added: “The LGBT partnership are looking for anyone who would like to help them make this interactive celebration the best it can be, so if this exciting project sounds like something you would like to be involved in we would encourage you to get in touch.”
If you are interested in being involved please contact Lillie Rowe on 01242 775156 or via at Lillie.Rowe@cheltenham.gov.uk for more information.