First ever LGBT History Month

I recently read that February is LGBT History Month in England. The article Pupils join in gay history month goes explains that, basically, it is "A month-long series of events to teach gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender history has been organised. These include poetry competitions, films and discussions about the sexuality of famous figures from the past, such as William Shakespeare. Schools are invited to attend and the government has part-funded the project, aimed at stopping homophobic bullying."

Although this not true for Scotland, as education is under separate control since Parliamentary devolution in 1997, it is encouraging to see England recognise the need for such programming and tolerance. In fact, just a few days later, an article in the BBC News, Concern over school 'gay' insults, reported that both verbal and physical assaults, particularly on the topic of queer youth or queer issues, is on the rise over the past three decades.

However, the Scottish Executive is doing its part to get involved. Apparently, they are sponsoring a "Diversity Awareness Week" where "the Scottish Executive's HR Policy Team (Diversity) and the Executive's LGBT Staff Network are running a lunchtime seminar... ...the aim of the seminar is to acknowledge the contributions LGBT staff have made to the Civil Service."

For more information about first ever events, click onLGBT History Month.