LGBT+ History Month is over for another year. Each year I hope that the next history month will come around where more milestones are reached and progress is made beyond expectations. Sometimes I'm pleasantly surprised with the progress.....others not so much.
I treat annual events like I treat my birthday. Each year I consider what I've achieved in the previous 12 months and validate whether another year passing should be celebrated. I didn't always think this way. One of my old work mates said he approached birthdays this way. Initially I thought this seemed a little harsh (I was 24 at the time) as birthdays were simply a great excuse to gather with loved ones. The more I thought about it the more I realised that its a good opportunity to do a 'personal stocktake'.
Look at your successes, areas of improvement and set your intentions for the year ahead. The successes and intentions don't have to be large and outlandishly audacious. They can be as minor the 1% that makes a big difference or as monumental as you wish - as long as you're moving forward. What are you doing for you? What are you doing for others?
With this in mind I've taken a look at what has been achieved in the LGBT+ community in the North East and beyond.
Here is my top 5 (in no particular order)
1. Newcastle City Council leads as Stonewall's Inclusive Employers list (read all about it here)
2. Same Sex Marriage is legalised in Northern Ireland - an absolute triumph
3. Justin Fashanu is inducted into the National Football Museums Hall of Fame - a tragic loss of life. Thankfully things are changing. This feels like a big step forward in a very 'straight' world of football.
4. UK Pride 2020 is hosted at Northern Pride - fantastic recognition of our region! (find out more here)
5. I've joined the board of Curious Arts. They work across the North East of England to develop projects and events which explore and celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer culture through the arts. Find out more here
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