LGBT History Month Launch at Salford University

Next February marks LGBT History Month, and Salford University are set to host the North West launch, on Thursday 3 December (Salford University, Peel Hall, 7pm-9pm).  Councillor Paul Murphy the chair of Greater Manchester Police Association will be at the launch event, alongside Professor Martin Hall (Vice-Chancellor of Salford University), Professor Sheila Rowbotham, teachers, education professionals, and civic leaders.

LGBT History Month celebrates the lives and achievements of the LGBT community and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

Cllr Paul Murphy, has encouraged schools to become part of the long-term solution to the very serious issue of homophobic hate crime. He said: "Homophobic bullying is a hate crime, it’s worrying to know these crimes are taking place in our schools.

"In my position as chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority, I have an insight into the work of GMP and I know that dedicated specialist police officers and staff are working hard to tackle this very serious problem. Sadly, they will not succeed alone. Schools also have a great part to play in actively discouraging unacceptable behaviour.

"Schools are obviously crucial as they are best placed to identify, challenge and address bullying. They have the power to create cultures where this kind of hatred could never take root. If this does not happen hate crime will not go away

"Police forces will continue to be stretched trying to fix problems they cannot fix. The educational attainment of children will continue to be hampered and most importantly, the mental and physical health of our young people will continue to be damaged That is not acceptable in today’s society."

The launch will feature information focused on challenging homophobic bullying in schools, including resources and advice from Exceeding Expectations – the schools project which tackles the issue of homophobic bullying in Manchester schools.

To register to attend the launch, click here.

AIM HIGH FOR LGBT HISTORY MONTH: The LGF want to help inspire and support lesbian, gay and bisexual young people, by helping them Aim High this LGBT History Month.  To find out how you can help, click here.