A thought-provoking exhibition display and festival are part of this year’s LGBT+ History Month celebrations at the Higgins Bedford this February.
This year’s theme, “Activism and Social Change,” will explore the LGBT+ individuals’ crucial role in shaping society and advancing equality for all.
From Saturday, 15 February to Sunday, 2 March, the Higgins’ foyer will be showcasing artwork created by Rainbow Bedfordshire’s Queer Craftivism Collective.
The exhibition will highlight the diverse forms of activism employed by LGBT+ people throughout history and will introduce some of the key speakers and contributors to the festival, including activists Max Fisher, Alex Baird, Drew Dalton, Lisa Vine, Harun Tulunay, poet Katie O’Pray, and author Jack Fairweather.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the LGBT+ History Month Festival Day on Saturday, February 22, held in the Barbican Studio at The Higgins Bedford.
This free event, in partnership with the University of Bedfordshire, Rainbow Bedfordshire and Schools OUT UK will offer an exciting program of talks, workshops, and a book launch, all centred around the theme of “Activism and Social Change.”
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said: “Bedford Borough Council is proud to support LGBT+ History Month and these important events at The Higgins Bedford.
“Celebrating the rich history and ongoing contributions of the LGBT+ community is vital to building a more inclusive and understanding society for everyone.”
The Festival Day program includes:
- 11am – Registration and Welcome
- 11.15am – Opening Keynote by Max Fisher, multi-award-winning disability advocate, speaker, scientist, druid, and drag king
- 12pm – Break
- 12.15pm – “Power in Poetry” with Katie O’Pray
- 1.15pm – Lunch
- 2.15pm – Social Activism Panel discussion chaired by Dr. Alex Baird, University of Bedfordshire, featuring guest activists Drew Dalton, Lisa Vine, and Harun Tulunay
- 3pm – Break
- 3.15pm – Social Activism Panel discussion, along with question and answers with the audience, chaired by Alex Baird
- 4pm – “The Prosecutor” Book Launch, featuring the story of Fritz Bauer, a Jewish gay man who sought justice, with author Jack Fairweather. This talk will be available in-person and online
- 4.30pm – Close
The packed day promises to be an inspiring and informative event, bringing together members of the community to celebrate LGBT+ history and explore the ongoing struggle for equality.
These events are supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD. For further information visit their website here.
