Escape 
February is LGBT+ History Month! This year’s theme is “Behind The Lens”, celebrating the achievements and contributions of LGBT+ people who have worked behind the scenes in the film industry – from makeup and special effects artists, to directors and screen writers.
2023 also marks 20 years since Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed in the UK, representing a huge step forward in terms of equality for the LGBT+ community. Section 28 banned the “promotion of homosexuality” by local governments and schools, meaning teachers weren’t able to teach about same-sex relationships and members of the LGBT+ community would feel unseen and unheard. The unified efforts to campaign against Section 28 were successful and led to the creation of Stonewall.
The community has come a long way since then, with those who identify as LGBT+ working in all parts of society. But there is still more that can be done to achieve true equality, and the best way we can do this is to acknowledge the history that has strengthened the community so far, and use this history to inspire us to make a positive difference.