BRADFORD is getting ready to host a range of workshops, exhibitions, talks, and musical events to celebrate and promote LGBT+ History Month 2018.

Last year, more than 130 events took place across the district designed to recognise the “invaluable” contributions LGBT+ people have made to society.

Bradford Council says it is now working with its partners organisations to maintain the city’s reputation as one of the “most LGBT+ friendly” cities in the UK by running a series of events during February.

Some highlights of the programme include Bradford College hosting a series of talks, one by well-known gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell who will speak about the Nazi war on homosexuals, and Bradford City FC hosting a ‘Kick it Out’ exhibition.

The Brick Box on Ivegate will host a ‘Big Gay Disco’, an event open to guests who are gay, straight, or otherwise, and a ‘Big Gay Bash’, celebrating LGBT+ bands and artists, will take place at the 1 in 12 club on Albion Street.

At a recent Full Council meeting, members voted to fully support LGBT+ History Month and encourage the public to attend events, and the authority said it was also supporting a campaign to add the event to the national curriculum and to change policies in schools to better reflect LGBT+ issues.

Councillor Richard Dunbar, the Council’s LGBT+ Champion, said: “I am proud once again that Bradford Council, in conjunction with many partners, will host a varied, thought-provoking, and challenging programme of events for LGBT+ History Month. There is something for everyone and we would encourage as many people to come along and attend as many of our events as possible.

“This is about creating understanding, challenging the way we might think, and also having fun.”

Councillor Abdul Jabar, the Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and community safety, said: “Bradford Council is proud of its commitment to fight inequality and injustice wherever it is seen, and it is for this reason we are fully supportive of LGBT+ History month and we want to make this year’s events the best ever.”

Kersten England, the Council’s chief executive, added “A key part of the battle to counteract discrimination against LGBT+ people is to raise awareness and education on these issues, and this is why initiatives such as LGBT+ History Month are so important and should be encouraged. As well as the serious issued involved, LGBT+ History Month also provides opportunities for everyone to celebrate their solidarity while having a great time.”

For more information and event details, visit www.lgbtbradford.co.uk.