February is LGBT+ (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) History Month and aims to encourage honesty and openness about being LGBT+.

This year sees the 50th anniversary of the very first Pride March in the UK in 1972. 

This year's theme will be "The Arc is Long" which was inspired by a Martin Luther King quote: 'The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice" Meaning that although it is taking a long time, we are curving/moving towards social justice and fairness. This theme provides us with the opportunity to explore the idea of social justice and changing attitudes towards LGBT+ people. While we have come a long way in terms of inclusion and attitudes towards same sex relationships and equal marriage, many LGBT+ people still face discrimination and prejudice in their day to day lives and there is still a great deal of work to be done.

In support of LGBT+ and other operational workers groups, information will be shared throughout February about:

• Pronouns – why is it important and how can you update your signature on the staff directory
• Navajo – Knowsley's commitment to the Navajo Charter Mark
• Monitoring and why monitoring is important to Knowsley Council.

Further information can also be found on the LGBT+ Plus History Month website and The Human Dignity Trust.

Did you know Knowsley has a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Forum? 

The Knowsley Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Forum offers support and encouragement to employees who wish to join or contribute to their activities. One of the main aims of the group is to increase the profile of the council as an employer which is supportive of its LGBT+ workers, where their contribution to the council is celebrated and valued as part of a diverse workforce.

The group acts as a consultation forum for new policies and strategies and hopes to influence change and open a two-way process for exchanging ideas, problem solving, and information sharing. It assists employees with development and empowerment and aims to raise awareness and reduce discrimination within the workplace.

For more information, contact Carl Phillips on 443 2398 or email carl.phillips@knowsley.gov.uk.

Here you can access information about the KLGBT+ Forum and how you can join. You can also email gwen.forkin@knowsley.gov.uk for further information.