LGBTQ+ History Month is a time to reflect on the pioneers who have fought for visibility, equality, and change.
Britain has a rich history of LGBTQ+ figures who have challenged societal norms, created groundbreaking art, and paved the way for future generations. From unsung heroes to global icons, their contributions continue to shape our world today.
Let’s celebrate some of these extraordinary individuals and the legacy they left behind.
Alan Turing: The Creator of Modern Computing
A mathematical prodigy and war hero, Alan Turing’s work in breaking the Nazi Enigma code helped turn the tide of World War II. Despite his extraordinary contributions, Turing was persecuted for his homosexuality, undergoing chemical castration following a conviction in 1952.
His tragic death in 1954 remains a stark reminder of the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ people throughout history. Today, he is recognised as the father of modern computing, and in 2013, he was posthumously pardoned. His face now appears on the £50 note—an overdue tribute to his contributions and legacy.
Virginia Woolf: A Literary Icon Who Challenged Gender Norms
Virginia Woolf, one of Britain’s most celebrated writers, used her work to explore gender, identity, and sexuality. Her novel Orlando (1928), inspired by her lover Vita Sackville-West, is a revolutionary work on gender fluidity that still resonates today.
Woolf’s writing was radical for its time, challenging restrictive societal norms and giving voice to those who felt constrained by rigid expectations. Her influence on feminist and LGBTQ+ literature remains profound.
Mark Ashton: Uniting Communities for Change
Activist Mark Ashton understood the power of solidarity. As the co-founder of Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) in the 1980s, he brought together two unlikely groups—LGBTQ+ activists and striking coal miners—to fight for workers’ rights.
His work was instrumental in shifting attitudes within the labour movement, leading to greater support for LGBTQ+ rights from trade unions. Ashton’s legacy lives on, immortalised in the film Pride (2014), which tells the story of LGSM’s impact
Diana, Princess of Wales: A Royal Ally
Though not LGBTQ+ herself, Princess Diana’s commitment to allyship helped pave the way for a more accepting and open world.
At the height of the AIDS crisis, when misinformation and stigma were rampant, Diana showed the world that HIV-positive individuals deserved dignity and compassion. Her famous handshake with an AIDS patient without wearing gloves was a groundbreaking moment in public health awareness, helping to dispel the fear and ignorance that surrounded HIV.
Why LGBTQ+ History Matters
The stories of these individuals remind us of the progress made—and the work still ahead. LGBTQ+ history is not just about struggle; it’s about resilience, brilliance, and courage. By celebrating these figures, we honour their contributions and ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices that paved the way for greater acceptance and rights.
As we observe LGBTQ+ History Month, let’s continue to amplify these voices, educate others, and push for a world where everyone can live openly and authentically.
