York celebrates LGBT+ communities

Monday, 13 February 2023 18:46

By Alexander Chadwick @thisisyo1

York is celebrating its historic links with LGBT+ pioneers, as well as our current communities, as part of LGBT+ History month.

Each February communities come together to reflect on and share LGBT+ history and celebrate culture.

York played an important role in LGBT+ history, as Anne Lister – often referred to as the first ‘modern lesbian’ – had her marriage to Ann Walker ‘blessed’ at Holy Trinity Church in Goodramgate in 1834.

In 2021 the council voted to become trans-inclusive, which included a range of proposals, such as flying the trans pride flag above the Mansion House twice a year.

Data from the most recent census highlights the vibrancy of York’s LGBT+ community – with 2% of the city’s population identifying as gay or lesbian – higher than both the national (1.5%) and regional figures (1.4%).

A total of 2.8% of the population identified as bisexual, more than double the national or regional figures

The percentage of York residents identifying as a trans man or trans woman was 0.1% - the same as both the national and regional figures. 0.3% of the population identified as other gender identities, 0.2% more than the national and regional figures.

Councillor Darryl Smalley, the council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Communities, said: “York is a city which prides itself on being welcoming to all. With strong traditions of equality and pioneering social reform, I’m delighted that York continues to be home to diverse communities, all of which contribute to the rich fabric of life in the city.

“Visibility and representation is crucial in raising awareness and educating the public about the difficulties affecting the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

“LGBT History Month is a time to discover the stories of the LGBT+ community, acknowledge the prejudice they have faced, and celebrate the progress that has been achieved.”

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