February celebrates LGBT + history month, LGBT + celebrates the lives and contributions of those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Throughout history individuals within this group have been discriminated against and ostracised due to their sexual orientation.

This year marks 20 years since Section 28, the law that banned “promotion of homosexuality” in the UK, was repealed. It was an attack on LGBT+ visibility, including it being illegal to be seen to promote or talk about homosexuality within schools or for gay couples to show affection towards each other in the community. In 1967 UK’s Sexual Offences Act is law and this decriminalises gay sex in private between men.

Additional legislation that supports the LGBT+ community:

2000 – LGBT people can serve in the Armed Forces

2001 – the age of consent is equalised at 16

2003 – Section 28 abolished in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

2005 – Gender Recognition Act grants legal status to trans people

2005 – Civil Partnerships introduced in the United Kingdom

2007 – Equality Act seeks to protect equal access to goods and services

The LGBT+ History Month 2023 #BehindTheLens celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to cinema and film from behind the lens. Directors, cinematographers, screen writers, producers, animators, costume designers, special effects, make up artists, lighting directors, musicians, choreographers and beyond.