LGBT+ History Month 2025

Lady Phyll

Lady Phyll (Phyll Opoku-Gyimah) is a trailblazing LGBTQ+ activist and the co-founder of UK Black Pride, Europe’s largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of colour. Lady Phyll became an activist after witnessing how racism, sexism, and homophobia intersected to marginalise LGBTQ+ people of colour within the broader queer community. Frustrated by the lack of representation, she sought to create safe spaces where diverse identities could be celebrated.

Challenges Faced:
Lady Phyll has faced resistance from both mainstream LGBTQ+organisationss and broader society, where racism and homophobia have often tried to diminish her work. Despite these challenges, she has tirelessly championed intersectionality and inclusion, using her platform to advocate for global LGBTQ+ rights.

Shivananda Khan

Shivananda Khan was a pioneering LGBTQ+ activist and the founder of the Naz Foundation, an organisation dedicated to supporting South Asian LGBTQ+ communities and addressing HIV/AIDS. Shivananda became an activist after seeing how cultural stigma and homophobia excluded South Asian queer people from both their cultural communities and LGBTQ+ spaces.



Challenges Faced:
Shivananda faced immense stigma as a queer South Asian man, battling cultural taboos, societal homophobia, and systemic neglect ofmarginalisedd communities. His work often required bridging deeply entrenched cultural and societal divides, but his persistence has left a lasting legacy of compassion and care.

Jonathan Blake

Jonathan Blake is a trailblazing activist and one of the first people in the UK to live openly with HIV. Diagnosed in the 1980s, Jonathan became a symbol of resilience and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV awareness. His life story inspired the character he portrayed in the film Pride. Jonathan remains a passionate speaker and activist, challenging stigma and empowering those affected by HIV.



Challenges Faced:
Jonathan has faced stigma and fear surrounding HIV, particularly during the 1980s when misinformation and discrimination were rampant. His visibility has been a beacon of hope and resilience.

Peter Tatchell

Peter Tatchell is one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ activists in the world, dedicating over 50 years to championing equality and human rights. He began his activism in the 1960s, inspired by the civil rights movement and the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Peter has worked tirelessly to challenge homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of inequality, founding the Peter Tatchell Foundation to promote global human rights.

Challenges Faced:
Peter has faced significant adversity throughout his activism, including arrests, physical assaults, and public vilification for his bold actions. Despite this, he remains an unwavering advocate, often putting himself at great personal risk to fight for justice and equality. His fearless approach to activism has made him a powerful force for change across the globe.

Patrick Trevor-Roper

Patrick Trevor-Roper (1916–2004) was a pioneering gay rights activist, author, and ophthalmologist. His work on LGBTQ+ equality in the mid-20th century broke new ground, particularly through his memoir The World Through Blunted Sight. As an early advocate for decriminalisation, Patrick’s courage and intellect laid the foundation for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Challenges Faced:
Patrick faced societal rejection and legal risks as an openly gay man during a time when homosexuality was criminalised. His bravery and advocacy helped pave the way for LGBTQ+ legal reforms.

Anthony Grey

Anthony Grey (1927–2023) was a journalist and the UK’s first openly gay activist. As Secretary of the Homosexual Law Reform Society in the 1960s, he played a critical role in the campaign that led to the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in England and Wales in 1967. Anthony’s bravery in standing up for LGBTQ+ rights during a time of widespread discrimination was instrumental in shaping a more inclusive society.

Challenges Faced:
Anthony faced intense public and media scrutiny during his campaigns and endured societal hostility. His courage and persistence helped lay the groundwork for LGBTQ+ equality in the UK.

April Ashley MBE

April Ashley MBE (1935–2021) was a trailblazer for transgender visibility in the UK. Among the first British individuals to undergo gender-affirming surgery, April faced immense public scrutiny but used her platform to advocate for trans rights. Her autobiography, The First Lady, shed light on the challenges of being transgender in a less accepting era. April’s courage and grace made her a symbol of resilience and progress for the trans community.

Challenges Faced:
April faced relentless media scrutiny and legal discrimination, including the invalidation of her marriage due to outdated laws. Her resilience in the face of public and systemic rejection made her an enduring symbol of courage and progress.

Jeffrey Marsh

Jeffrey Marsh is a nonbinary activist, author, and motivational speaker known for their viral social media presence. With a focus on self-acceptance and mental health, Jeffrey’s work empowers LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their identities. Their book How to Be You offers practical advice and inspiration for anyone seeking authenticity. Jeffrey’s message of love and inclusion resonates with audiences worldwide, making them a beacon of hope in the LGBTQ+ community.

Challenges Faced:
Jeffrey has faced online harassment and societal misunderstanding of nonbinary identities. Despite these challenges, they remain a source of positivity and inspiration, encouraging others to embrace their authentic selves.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a groundbreaking actor, model, and activist celebrated for their role as Angel Evangelista in Pose. As a nonbinary person of colour, Indya uses their platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for trans and queer rights. Beyond Hollywood, they are a vocal supporter of marginalised communities, addressing issues such as homelessness and systemic inequality. Indya’s work is reshaping perceptions and building a more inclusive future.

Challenges Faced:

Indya has faced discrimination and systemic barriers in both the entertainment industry and broader society. Their activism continues to shed light on the intersections of race, gender, and identity.

Jamie Windust

Jamie Windust is a nonbinary activist, author, and public speaker whose work challenges societal norms and advocates for LGBTQ+ equality. Jamie became an activist after experiencing systemic inequities as a nonbinary individual navigating a world that often disregards gender diversity. They use their voice to highlight the challenges faced by the trans and nonbinary communities, focusing on issues like healthcare access, workplace discrimination, and representation in media.

Challenges Faced:

Jamie has faced institutional barriers, public ignorance, and online harassment as a visible nonbinary person. Despite these challenges, they continue to inspire others through their resilience and advocacy, showing that authentic representation has the power to change societal perceptions.

Jayne Ozanne

Jayne Ozanne is a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and advocate for equality in faith spaces. As a member of the Church of England's General Synod, she has campaigned tirelessly against conversion therapy and for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in religious communities. Founder of the Ozanne Foundation, Jayne works to bridge the gap between faith and LGBTQ+ equality, encouraging open dialogue and systemic change. Her courageous stance has made her a leading figure in the fight for justice and acceptance in faith-based institutions.

Challenges Faced:
Jayne has faced backlash from conservative religious groups and individuals who oppose LGBTQ+ inclusion. Despite personal attacks and institutional resistance, she remains a powerful voice for reconciliation between faith and equality.

Maureen Colquhoun

Maureen Colquhoun (1928–2021) was the first openly lesbian Member of Parliament in the UK, a groundbreaking achievement in 1970s Britain. Representing Northampton North, she was an outspoken advocate for gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and socialist policies. Despite facing intense discrimination, she remained a vocal supporter of progressive change. Maureen’s legacy continues to inspire LGBTQ+ individuals in politics and beyond.

Challenges Faced:
Maureen faced intense scrutiny and public backlash after coming out as a lesbian, with efforts made to discredit her both personally and politically. Despite this, she stood firm in her advocacy, paving the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in politics.

Jackie Forster

Jackie Forster (1926–1998) was a journalist, broadcaster, and fearless LGBTQ+ activist. A co-founder of Sappho, one of the first magazines for queer women in the UK, she provided a platform for LGBTQ+ voices at a time when they were often silenced. Jackie also worked tirelessly to build community, organising events and fighting for lesbian visibility. Her contributions to queer culture and activism remain monumental.

Challenges Faced:
Jackie faced social stigma and professional risks as an openly lesbian woman in an era where such openness could lead to ostracisation. Her courage and determination helped create lasting platforms for lesbian representation.

Lisa Power

Lisa Power is a veteran LGBTQ+ activist and a driving force behind some of the UK’s most significant advocacy organisations. A founding member of Stonewall, she played a critical role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights. As a trustee of the Terrence Higgins Trust, she has been a leading voice in HIV awareness and prevention. Lisa’s commitment to community-led change has cemented her as a beloved figure in LGBTQ+ history.

Challenges Faced:
Lisa faced hostility and misinformation during the early days of the AIDS crisis, battling societal prejudice and systemic inaction. Her advocacy required persistence in the face of immense stigma, helping change public attitudes toward HIV/AIDS.