Celebrating LGBT+ History Month 2026

Claim our past, celebrate our present, create our future

LGBT+ History Month was founded by Schools Out following the repeal of Section 28. This 1988 Government Act “prohibit[ed] the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities”, in essence banning the teaching, and even discussion of, LGBT+ people and families in schools. Working to #educateOUTprejudice and create safe learning environments for LGBT+ students, Schools Out launched the Month to celebrate the rich and diverse history of the community.

Every February, a theme is chosen and five historical figures highlighted (listed below). 2026 is the year of Science and Innovation, remembering the contributions of LGBT+ scientists but also the harm that has been caused to the community when science was misapplied in the past and how this still needs to be addressed today.

• Barbara Buford (1944 – 2010), a medical researcher who fought for equality within healthcare.
• Charles Beyer (1813 – 1876), one of Britain’s leading locomotive engineers.
• Elke Mackenzie (1911 – 1990), a British polar explorer and botanist, specialising in lichens.
• Jemma Redmond (1978 – 2016), a biotechnician and pioneer in the field of 3D bio-printing.
• Robert Boyle (1627 – 1691), widely considered the first modern chemist.

Get involved at Imperial

Events will be taking place over the next few weeks in honour of LGBT+ History Month. If you would like to organise an activity this February or an EDI event at any other time of the year, please get in touch with the EDI Centre at equality@imperial.ac.uk.

• LGBTQ+ Bodyweight fitness class and social, Wednesday 4 February, 15.00 – 16.00
• Student Union LGBTQ+ History Month launch event and Charity Bake Sale, Thursday 5 February, 11.00 – 16.00, Abdus Salam Library foyer
• LGBTQ+ Badminton and Table Tennis, Friday 6 February, 14.00 – 15.00
• Queer Hall: A History of LGBTQ+ Events at the Royal Albert Hall, Thursday 12 February, 12.30 – 13.30
• Queer ecology walk and collaging workshop, Monday 16 February, 14.00 – 16.00
• LGBTQ+ inclusion and mental health training, Monday 23 February – Wednesday 25 February

To connect with other members of the community at Imperial, consider joining Imperial 600, the university’s network for staff and postgraduate students, or IQ, Imperial’s LGBTQ+ student-led society.