It's LGBTQ+ History Month
February marks LGBTQ+ History Month, an annual observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer history.
Here at UoB, we're committed to celebrate and increase visibility of LGBTQ+ people, their histories and their lived experiences and raise awareness among the University community. Join our exciting programme of events, open to all students, to celebrate and commemorate LGBTQ+ history.
The theme for 2025 is Activism and Social Change and highlights the ongoing fight for equality for these communities as well as celebrating the important milestones reached.
Some highlights include:
Trans and Non-Binary Social
Wednesday 12 February, 14:00-16:00
Guild of Students
Come along to find a chill space that is open to any students that are Trans and/or Non-binary or questioning. Meet other students and enjoy some free snacks and drinks!
Public lecture: Bowie Love
Wednesday 12 February, 19:00-20:30
The Exchange Newhall Street, Birmingham, B3 3PJ
This lecture will consider the idea of love as agape, a Greco-Christian term capturing the idea of a love for humanity. It will be argued that it is this love, which privileges otherness over self, love over law, that cascades through David Bowie’s work. Secure your spot.
LGBTQ Activism and Social Change in Birmingham
Tuesday 18 February, 16:00-17:00
Arts - Lecture Room 6
Join us in exploring the rich history of LGBTQ activism and social change in Birmingham. Register for your place.
Queer collaging with Joe Brainard
Wednesday 19 February, 14:00-16:00
The Medical School
Enjoy a relaxing few hours of collaging with us in the spirit of queer artist, poet and sharer of joy Joe Brainard. Book your space.
Ginny Lemon: In Conversation
Thursday 20 February, 18:00-19:20
Main Lecture Theatre, Arts
Ginny Lemon is an extremely successful drag performer and recording artist, best known for competing on the second series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK. They will be talking about their journey as a performance artist, embracing their non-binary identity, and more in this talk and Q&A. Register for free.
Explore the full events schedule.
Win a copy of Queer as Folklore
Fifteen students can win a copy of Queer as Folklore ahead of the event with author Sacha Coward on Wednesday 5 March. After you attend the event, you'll be able to exclusively meet Sacha, chat about the book and have your copy signed! Enter now.
Hear from UoB students
- Student Caitlin reflects on the importance of the month in honouring activists and raising awareness about the ongoing struggle for acceptance. Read Caitlin's blog.
- PhD student Clem looks back on his complex journey and the empowering experience of finally embracing his authentic self. Read Clem's blog.
If you’d like to share your experience, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.