News
November 2nd saw the pre-launch of LGBT History Month at Twickenham Rugby ground - for the next two years the event will have a sports theme.
LGBT History Month is the time of year where schools, organisations and individuals are encouraged to celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people, their history and achievements.
For the next two years the event will have a sports theme and will aim to raise the profile of LGBT sports people past and present, as well as tackling homophobia and transphobia in sport.
Participants in the pre-launch event heard from LGBT sports specialists, and organisers of successful LGBT History Month events shared their experience.
BBC TV’s Jane Hill compered a panel discussion with John Amaechi, psychologist and former NBA basketball star, Clare Harvey, GB sitting volleyball player, and rugby legend Gareth Thomas.
Gareth Thomas talked about the liberation of coming out. Clare Harvey thought it would be easier to come out before reaching peak performance as there would be less pressure. While John Amaechi spoke of ‘the authenticity of living openly’ - the tiny amount of energy a closeted sportsperson reserves to protect themselves really is significant at the level of elite sport.
Dikeledi Sabanda spoke movingly about the Chosen Few black lesbian soccer team in Johannesburg and their tireless and often dangerous campaign work.
Sue Sanders, Co-chair of LGBT History Month, said of the launch: "It’s been an amazing, productive day for everyone involved. We heard so many positive stories and great ideas for events.'
‘Taking on homophobia and transphobia in sport is a huge challenge for us, but I’m bowled over by the expertise and passion in the community to make this happen. I’m already looking forward to some fabulous events in February!"
Visit Schools Out for more info.
Exceeding Expectations are urging schools to celebrate LGBT History Month in February 2011. You've got plenty of time to get planning, and if you need any help or ideas, simply get in touch with Exceeding Expectations at exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
For the next two years the event will have a sports theme and will aim to raise the profile of LGBT sports people past and present, as well as tackling homophobia and transphobia in sport.
Participants in the pre-launch event heard from LGBT sports specialists, and organisers of successful LGBT History Month events shared their experience.
BBC TV’s Jane Hill compered a panel discussion with John Amaechi, psychologist and former NBA basketball star, Clare Harvey, GB sitting volleyball player, and rugby legend Gareth Thomas.
Gareth Thomas talked about the liberation of coming out. Clare Harvey thought it would be easier to come out before reaching peak performance as there would be less pressure. While John Amaechi spoke of ‘the authenticity of living openly’ - the tiny amount of energy a closeted sportsperson reserves to protect themselves really is significant at the level of elite sport.
Dikeledi Sabanda spoke movingly about the Chosen Few black lesbian soccer team in Johannesburg and their tireless and often dangerous campaign work.
Sue Sanders, Co-chair of LGBT History Month, said of the launch: "It’s been an amazing, productive day for everyone involved. We heard so many positive stories and great ideas for events.'
‘Taking on homophobia and transphobia in sport is a huge challenge for us, but I’m bowled over by the expertise and passion in the community to make this happen. I’m already looking forward to some fabulous events in February!"
Visit Schools Out for more info.
Exceeding Expectations are urging schools to celebrate LGBT History Month in February 2011. You've got plenty of time to get planning, and if you need any help or ideas, simply get in touch with Exceeding Expectations at exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
The Statistics
80% of UK schools are aware of homophobic bullying incidents
6% of schools have policies targeting homophobic bullying
About 1 in 3 young LGBTs self-harm or attempt suicide
More facts >>