Events
If you're new to the organisation, coming out at work, or if you just feel like you do not know any other employees who identify as LGBT, our social events are a great way to network with colleagues in a non-formal environment.
Regular events for your diary
- Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Spring each year: As a constituted group, our network is required to hold an AGM each year. We normally do this around the end of the financial year in March or April. In this meeting we hold elections for the Network Spokesperson (or people) and Coordinator(s). This is an opportunity to present a review of activities undertaken by the network throughout the year, and hear from key supporters such as the Chief Executive and the LGBT Equality Champion. We usually invite a guest speaker to highlight a relevant issue. Recent guests have included Pink List 2011 winner Elly Barnes, the poet Vince Laws, and the founder of UK Black Pride Phyll Opoku-Gyimah. We would love our members to come to all of our meetings in the year, but if you can only make one, this is the one to make.
- LGBT History Month, February: Originating in schools, the initiative encourages children to learn about positive references and contributions by the LGBT community throughout history, and this has now spread into many different workplaces. Each year has a different subject or theme, for example sport, maths and science, music or history.
- International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, 17 May: On 17 May 1990 the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases. Every year on this day we celebrate International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) with various activities in our workplaces. Contact us to let us know what you are doing in your team.
- Birmingham Pride, End of May Bank Holiday: Birmingham Pride is a major event celebrating the LGBT community. Covering the whole three days, the event starts with a march through the city centre, culminating in a festival in the Hurst Street area. The event has a genuine community feel with something for everyone. The LGBT Allies Network regularly attends to walk in the parade. If you've not been before, why not join us for the next one?
- Other network meetings: Throughout the year, we hold various meetings or events which usually have a theme and / or a guest speaker. These are great opportunities to meet and network with colleagues and find out what is happening within the community at work. If you're looking for a way to meet like-minded colleagues or get involved more, this is a great place to do it. We are a friendly bunch so do not be shy about attending on your own.