Council flies the flag to observe LGBT History Month
West Oxfordshire District Council is observing LGBT History Month by flying the LGBT flag on its Council buildings at Woodgreen in Witney.
LGBT History Month runs from 1 February to 28 February 2023 and observes lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history and the history of gay rights and related civil rights movements.
Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council said, “I am proud that the LGBT flag is flying here this month. It’s an important month for the LGBT community, and supports our aim of an inclusive Council, making sure everyone is actually feeling involved and part of this community.”
Councillor Andrew Coles, Vice Chair of West Oxfordshire District Council added, “It's really important that we look back at where we've come from so that we can focus on where we need to be. It was only up until the mid-1960s that being gay was considered a mental illness in the UK.
“Although we have come far in the last 25 or so years; considering things like civil partnerships, which then opened the door for marriage equality, but we're still not there yet. It’s a testament to events like Pride and LGBT History Month that we have moved to a place where gay and lesbian people now have adoption rights, and that people can serve openly and be themselves in the armed forces, which is wonderful.”
The Council will continue to support the rights of the people, ensuring they are treated with tolerance and respect. People have the right to move forward in equality, being proud of who they are no matter who they love.