Celebrating LGBTQ+ voices, histories and communities
LGBTQ+ History Month takes place across the UK every February to recognise and celebrate the history, achievements and cultures of LGBTQ+ communities and individuals.
The theme for 2026 is Science and Innovation, highlighting key milestones reached by and for the LGBTQ+ community, including work happening here at the university.
Quote from Dr Sammy Li, Assistant Director of Student Affairs (Postgraduate and EDI):
"This year’s theme, LGBTQ+ Science and Innovation, resonates deeply with the core mission of universities as places dedicated to scientific discovery, innovation, and education. At the University of Birmingham, more than 4,000 of our students and hundreds of our staff identify as LGBTQ+, and it is inspiring to see the contributions of LGBTQ+ scientists and innovators reflected and celebrated throughout this month‑long programme across the UK."
Highlights
LGBTQ+ book display and badges
Monday 2 February - Sunday 28 February
Atrium, Main Library
Come along any time this month to find your next read to borrow, learn about LGBTQ+ scientific history, and take a badge and a sticker! No booking needed, just drop by.
Bread & Belief: Queer Prophets for LGBTQ+ History Month
Monday 2 February, 13:00-15:00
Oasis Lounge, Multifaith Chaplaincy
Bake and eat bread as we discuss queer spirituality, with excerpts from The Book of Queer Prophets. You'll even get to take away the bread you baked!
B-Film screenings
From 2 February, 17:00-19:00
Muirhead Tower
Enjoy free screenings of films such as The Favourite and The Life and Death of Marsha P Johnson.
Transgender clothing swap
Wednesday 4 February, 11:00-17:00
Studio 2, ERI building
Find some new outfits with a clothing swap event for transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, and questioning individuals - a low-cost, sustainable way for members of the trans community to find clothing that aligns with your gender expression.
In Conversation with Paul David Gould, author of Last Dance at the Discotheque for Deviants
Monday 9 February, 13:00-14:00
Room 111, Law building
Join us for conversation with Paul David Gould, author of Last Dance at the Discotheque for Deviants. Set in 1993's Moscow, his debut novel blends mystery, history and a powerful queer coming‑of‑age story, inspired by his own experience.
The Light of Day: Rediscovering a Gay Liberation’s Hero
Wednesday 11 February, 13:00-14:00
Teaching and Learning building
Come along for a thought-provoking conversation with Christopher Stephens, author of The Light of Day: the moving true story of the first man to come out as gay.
LGBTQ+ Association and Guild of Students: Drag Disco
Thursday 12 February, 10:00-03:00
Joe's Bar, Guild of Students
Come along to a Drag Disco featuring, Ruby Boy, crowd games and high-energy performances that you won’t want to miss!
Teaching Bodies, Not Assumptions: advancing transgender and intersex inclusive anatomy education
Monday 16 February, 14:00-15:00
Online
Join us for a reflection on transgender and intersex inclusive anatomy education initiatives developed as an Anatomy Teaching Fellow at UoB.
Check out more events for LGBTQ+ Histiory Month.
Blog: Birmingham’s LGBTQ+ History
In this blog, our student Ruby explores Birmingham’s rich LGBTQ+ history, shaped by iconic venues, powerful activism and individuals who fought for visibility and equality.
A sit down with a Drag Queen
Check out student Robin's interview with the incredible drag queen Phil Harper (They/Them), who not only dazzles in fabulous drag but also serves as a Senior Lecturer in Health and Social Care at Newman University.
Fancy winning a free (signed) book?
We’re giving away 20 copies of The Light of Day - a story that captures the first man to come out voluntarily, using his own name, to the entire British public. Simply fill out this form to enter the competition.
If selected, you need to attend the corresponding event on the 11 February where you’ll receive your free copy of the book, personally signed by the author!