Celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month at Morley College London

As part of the “X of Morley” campaigns, Morley College London celebrated LGBTQ+ History Month, highlighting the college’s diversity, inclusion, and representation. This month provided an opportunity for our college community to engage with the rich histories and stories of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Queer Life: A celebration of identity and expression

A key highlight of the month was the Queer Life exhibition, which ran throughout February. This collection showcased memorabilia and artworks from both staff and students, each item accompanied by personal stories that brought to life the  experiences of queer identity.  Through powerful storytelling and visual representation, Queer Life promoted diversity, challenging societal norms and celebrating authenticity within our Morley community.

Morley Radio’s LGBTQIA+ History month series

Morley Radio celebrated the month with a compelling podcast series. Hosted by Emmanuel Vass, Subject Leader for Music & the Creative Arts at North Kensington – the series featured conversations with Morley staff members who shared their unique journeys as LGBTQIA+ individuals. The episodes provided insightful reflections on growing up, overcoming challenges, and finding pride in identity. 

Penny Lecture: Avi Ben Zeev – A trans journey

A Penny Lecture featuring Avi Ben Zeev, author of Calling My Deadname Home: A Trans Journey was held on 27 February. Interviewed by Caprice Jackson, Avi shared his powerful story of gender transition, identity reconciliation, and his transformation from a high school dropout to a Yale PhD and psychology professor. The event was an exploration of identity, resilience, and self-acceptance.

Exploring Lambeth’s LGBTQ+ heritage

As part of Doing Lambeth Walks, a Morley Radio podcast, hosts Adrian Gibson and Clare Truscott took listeners on a journey through Lambeth’s rich LGBTQ+ history. Covering key locations across Streatham, Brixton, and Vauxhall, they shared stories of past LGBTQ+ venues and events.

In conversation with Caprice Jackson

Morley Radio’s In the Company Of podcast featured an enlightening conversation with Morley English Tutor Caprice Jackson. From discussing her novel to exploring meditation and spiritual growth, Caprice provided thoughtful insights into identity and personal evolution within the Morley community.

Looking forward

LGBTQ+ History Month at Morley College London was more than a celebration – through exhibitions, radio discussions, and thought-provoking lectures, we honoured the past, embraced the present, and paved the way for a more inclusive future.

As we move beyond February, Morley remains dedicated to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, advocating for diversity, and ensuring that our community remains a place where everyone can express themselves freely and authentically.