In incredibly uncertain and unsettling times, we could all do with a little rainbow in our lives.
February marked LGBT History Month, and as it is deeply woven with feminist history, we wanted to make the most out of it, and celebrate it with vivacity.
The histories of feminism and LGBT politics have been intertwined in the western world at least since the 1960s. Both movements emerged as radical social movements amidst the rapid cultural changes of the sexual revolution. They often influenced each other, not least in the queer community’s adoption of the feminist concept of patriarchy.
Both movements radicalised earlier approaches centred on formal legal equality, more fundamentally questioning ingrained social norms, and working towards broader cultural transformation. Both movements in some respects struggled with diversity within their ranks, and specifically, the distinct experiences and voices of lesbian women were often sidelined.
So as intersectional feminists, it’s absolutely vital that we recognise this entwined history and we use this month to not only educate ourselves but to celebrate the achievements of the past that have led us to today. I myself, couldn’t have reconciled with my own sexuality freely and safely without the incredible and brave queer icons of the past. In 2022, I believe that feminism can only truly be feminism if it includes all women. We are not just allies but we are united, in more ways than one.
If you didn’t get a chance to celebrate along with us, why not use today to reflect? You can find all our LGBT History articles in our newsletter, along with the wonderful social media takeovers from our LGBTQ+ Editors Adam and Robyn.
Looking forward, today marks the start of International Women’s Month! Make sure you stay tuned, we have heaps of content on the way including a very special feature with a very special guest. You can also find me at the Henry Wellcome Collection on the 10th of March as part of a panel to discuss ‘Women of the Future’ `arranged by Cambridge University. On top of all of that, we’ll be attending and reporting on the Women of the World Festival (WOW) in Southbank.
I hope you all had an amazing LGBT History Month new feminists!