People’s History Museum marks 50 years since the partial decriminalisation of homosexual acts

It's difficult to imagine a world without the LGBT community we know today. And it's easy to forget that it's only recently been accepted by the majority of society, and the law.

LGBT+ badges © People's History Museum

LGBT+ badges © People's History Museum

A new exhibition entitled Never Going Underground at the People’s History Museum in Manchester marks 50 years since the partial decriminalisation of homosexual acts in England and Wales (1967 Sexual Offences Act).

This major show developed by nine community curators examines the events that took place leading up to the Act when it was illegal for men to have sex together, lesbianism was condemned as sinful or seen as a medical misfortune, and trans rights were nonexistent, and the journey to present time.

The exhibition, which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), takes visitors through the themes behind the movement and stories of diverse LGBT+ communities, drawing upon the slogans and campaigns that pushed forward the progression towards equality.

Protest, representation, visibility, solidarity, a shared voice and creativity have been the driving forces behind the vision for LGBT+ rights, and these form the backdrop for the exhibition.

For further information on the People’s History Museum, visit www.phm.org.uk. Exhibition runs until 3 September 2017.

Bucket hat with badges, 1970s to 2000s, From the collections of Glasgow Women’s Library

Bucket hat with badges, 1970s to 2000s, From the collections of Glasgow Women’s Library

‘Bobby Dazzler’ police officer’s helmet used at Manchester Pride, 2016, Courtesy of Greater Manchester Police Pride Network and Brett Dearden (designer)

‘Bobby Dazzler’ police officer’s helmet used at Manchester Pride, 2016, Courtesy of Greater Manchester Police Pride Network and Brett Dearden (designer)

Red anorak worn by Julie Hesmondhalgh as Hayley Cropper on Coronation Street-Never Going Underground-Image copyright People's History Museum

Red anorak worn by Julie Hesmondhalgh as Hayley Cropper on Coronation Street-Never Going Underground-Image copyright People's History Museum

Never Going Underground banner, 1988, copyright People's History Museum

Never Going Underground banner, 1988, copyright People's History Museum

Postcards, 1910 – 1927, Courtesy of Jenny White

Postcards, 1910 – 1927, Courtesy of Jenny White

Pits and Perverts Poster, 1984, copyright People's History Museum

Pits and Perverts Poster, 1984, copyright People's History Museum

Share

Editor's Picks

Further Reading

Get the best of Creative Boom delivered to your inbox weekly