This new observance day will honour the rich tapestry of our lesbian ancestors
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGES VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
If you look in many mainstream history books, lesbians have been erased, ignored, persecuted, killed and forgotten. But the reality is starkly different. Lesbians were writing poems in Ancient Greece. They were breaking into convents to sneak out their lovers. They were building homes, creating their own wedding ceremonies and collecting lockets of lovers’ pubes (Anne Lister, ever the icon) long before Pride marches and marriage equality were around. They were selling out shows in the Harlem Renaissance, fighting for civil rights and pioneering in science, business and technology. Lesbian history is so expansive that it could fill entire curriculums.
And now, this beautiful legacy will be celebrated every single year with the creation of Lesbian History Day. Celebrated on 6 September, this new annual observance will bring together communities around the world to honour this rich and diverse history. Founded by DIVA Charitable Trust trustee Marie-Helene Tyack, Lesbian History Day is a reminder that lesbians have, and always will be, here.
Speaking about Lesbian History Day, Marie-Helene said: “It’s about acknowledging the courage and resilience of those who paved the way for future generations. It’s a day to celebrate our community’s strength and diversity, and to inspire continued progress and acceptance.”
To celebrate this new observance day, workshops, panel discussions and community gatherings will be held globally. At the heart of Lesbian History Day is honouring the individuals who have shaped lesbian culture today, who fought for lesbian rights and who were trailblazers.
“Our history is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and community. By celebrating it, we honour those who came before us and inspire those who will come after,” Marie-Helene added.
For more information about Lesbian History Day and how you can participate, please contact lesbianhistoryday@gmail.com or follow @lesbian_history_day on Instagram.
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