LGBTQ+ History Month: Legislation and Progress in the UK

In the UK, LGBTQ+ History Month was founded in 2004 in response to the repeal of Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988. Under that act, it was illegal to ‘promote’ homosexuality by local authorities – the LGBTQ+ community was silenced in schools and councils across the UK. The incredible impact that LGBTQ+ people made on history was essentially wiped out over those years. The first LGBTQ+ History Month was celebrated in 2005, so this year is the 19^th anniversary.

LGTBQ+ History Month began in the UK, and this year the theme is ‘Medicine – #underthescope’ – aiming to highlight contributions made to the field of medicine while also highlighting the LGBTQ+ community’s experience in receiving healthcare treatment.

For example, the AIDs epidemic had a profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Fear, misinformation, and prejudice fuelled stigmatisation of the LGBTQ+ community, making it even more challenging for individuals to seek healthcare. Discrimination within the healthcare system itself created barriers, leaving many LGBTQ+ individuals hesitant to access vital services.

The theme of this year focuses on the much-needed improvements for the LGBTQ+ community – such as the banning of conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy refers to a range of practices that attempt to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. These methods can include talk therapy, electroshock therapy, and other harmful interventions. Despite major medical and psychological organisations condemning these practices, this brutal practice is yet to be banned by the UK government.

Research consistently shows that conversion therapy can lead to severe psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. (If you are struggling with anything mentioned, please click here.)

As we honour LGBTQ+ History Month and the theme for this year it is incumbent to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for legislation. Together we can create a safer, more accepting world for everyone.

Legal Milestones:

1. Decriminalisation of Homosexuality (1967): A watershed moment in LGBTQ+ history, the Sexual Offences Act of 1967 decriminalised homosexuality in England and Wales for men over the age of 21. While it was a significant step forward, there were still discriminatory elements in the law.
2. Equal Age of Consent (2001): The age of consent for homosexual acts was equalized to 16, bringing it in line with heterosexual acts. This change marks a move towards recognising the quality of relationships regardless of sexual orientation.
3. Civil Partnership Act (2004): The Civil Partnership Act allowed same-sex couples to legally formalise their relationships. While not marriage, it was a significant step towards protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ couples.
4. Gender Recognition Act (2004): This legislation allowed transgender individuals to obtain legal recognition of their gender. However, there have been calls for reform to make the process more accessible and less intrusive.
5. Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act (2013): A historic moment for LGBTQ+ rights, this legislation legalised same-sex marriage in England and Wales. It granted equal marriage rights to all couples, regardless of their sexual orientation.

How We Can Help

At Harding Evans, it is important to us that we are inclusive to all and that we welcome everyone as an individual, both as clients and as colleagues. If you are looking for more support on LGBTQ+ legal advice, contact us today.