We are excited to announce that Newham’s LGBT+ History Month 2025 programme will launch with the annual flag raising event at East Ham Town Hall on 1 February 2025, where the progressive flag will be raised. The event will be led by Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE and Councillors, signalling the start of a month of activities to celebrate LGBT+ history.
Newham’s LGBT+ History Month cultural programme aims to connect, empower and improve wellbeing through a series of talks, performances, author events and creative workshops. These activities explore and shed light on the national theme, Activism and Social Change as announced by Schools Out LGBT+ History Month.
Our programme will end with the Queer Rising: Youth Talent Showcase 2025, led by Newham’s CAYA (Come As You Are) LGBTQIA+ Youth Project. This inspiring evening will celebrate LGBT+ history through the creativity of young performers aged 10 to 25. Enjoy captivating live performances, thought-provoking guest speakers, as we honour the rich legacy and future of the LGBT+ community. Don’t miss this unforgettable night! Keep an eye out for the booking link soon.
The 2025 programme includes the following events:
LGBT+ History Month Flag Raising and Launch
1 February, East Ham Town Hall
Join Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE and Councillors to raise the official LGBT+ flag and launch Newham’s LGBT+ History Month. No booking required.
Queer Action Lecture Series
7, 14, 21, 28 February, borough-wide – please check website for full details
Led by Forest Gate CIC (Community Interest Company) this engaging series of lectures will explore the theme through these topics: Sexual Health Activism, Polari and the Secret Queer language, Action for the LGBT and Elderly, Queer Families and Activism. Explore the transformative power of activism in shaping rights and fostering an inclusive, vibrant community.
Queer Walks and Plaques
9 February, Stratford Library
Take part in a guided walking tour led by local artists, Artizine and jdwoof exploring significant but often overlooked LGBT+ spaces and stories in Newham. And later unleash your creativity in a plaque-making art activity inspired by London’s iconic blue plaques — with a radical twist.
Queer Choir Fest
15-16 February, Westfield, Stratford City
Join Newham Music for the Indie Queer Choir Festival – two days of inspiring workshops, open rehearsals, and performances featuring Errata, F*Choir, and the London Trans Choir. Celebrate diversity, inclusion and community through music at Newham Music Hub: Westfield. All voices are welcome - come sing, connect, and uplift!
Queer Rising Youth Talent Showcase
28 February, The Source, formerly Stratford Youth Zone
This finale to the 2025 programme promises to be an inspiring evening celebrating LGBT+ history through the creative talents of young performers aged 10-25.
For more information about Newham’s LGBT+ History Month programme and how to book onto events, visit: www.newhamlgbthistory.org
