Calderdale Council is proud to support national LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans+) History Month 2024(external link).
Every February, the awareness month aims to increase the visibility of LGBT+ people and history, and to combat prejudice.
Cllr Jenny Lynn, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said:
“We want all our staff, and all local people, to be their true selves – Calderdale is a richer and more vibrant place because of our diverse communities.
“LGBT+ History Month is for everyone – we can all show support. And this support doesn’t end when February is over – we strive to make equality, diversity and inclusion a reality every day.
“Embracing and celebrating all our diverse communities is at the heart of the Council’s priority to reduce inequalities.
“In support of the Vision 2024 for Calderdale, the Council wants kindness to thrive in all parts of the borough, and everyone’s voices to be heard.”
This starts in the workplace, with the Council supporting LGBTQIA+ equality and having a staff network that provides a safe space for employees to talk honestly and openly, to challenge mindsets, influence policy and make positive change happen. This ensures that LGBTQIA+ views are represented in services for local people.
Libraries in Halifax, Hebden Bridge and Todmorden have displays with LGBT+ History Month resources throughout February, and families can get creative with free themed crafts at all libraries in Calderdale during the month, including hearts and rainbows to colour in, and the chance to make badges and rainbow wands.
Anne Lister – the world-famous diarist, entrepreneur and lesbian, and inspiration for Sally Wainwright’s Gentleman Jack – is a major part of Calderdale’s LGBT+ history. Her legacy continues to be celebrated through the iconic Anne Lister Birthday Festival(external link) this April.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of all parts of CultureDale(external link), Calderdale’s Year of Culture 2024 (April 2024 to April 2025), with events and activities for all. Happy Valley Pride is one of the local creative organisations delivering big projects and events as part of the Year of Culture, supporting CultureDale’s aim to bring people together through arts, heritage, sports and culture in all its forms. Find out more at www.culturedale.co.uk(external link)
April 2024 marks Calderdale’s 50th birthday and there are just months to go! Get involved on X with #VisionCdale2024 and find out more at www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision