Barking and Dagenham Council is proud to announce its new LGBT+ History Month programme, which will feature a variety of events and initiatives to raise awareness and celebrate the contributions of members of the LGBT+ community.

It’s the fifth time Barking and Dagenham Council has joined in the national event, which launched as a way of marking lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, as well as celebrating gay rights and the civil rights movements.

Some key events include:

• A panel discussion on the history and current state of LGBT+ rights and activism
• A film screening and Q&A with the director of a documentary on the lives of LGBT+ people in the borough
• A series of workshops on LGBT+ inclusive language and practices for local business and organisations

Councillor Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills and Aspiration, said: "We are committed to creating a more inclusive and welcoming community for everyone, and LGBT+ History Month is an important opportunity for us to do just that. By highlighting the contributions of the LGBT+ community and providing education and resources, we hope to promote understanding and acceptance for all. We encourage you all to get involved in this months programme"

Check out the full programme here.