Our Stories

Thanks to the generosity of national lottery players, Derbyshire LGBT+ are proud to announce we were awarded National Lottery Heritage Funding to support the ‘Our Stories’ project.

The ‘Our Stories’ project is now live.

In 2017 Derbyshire LGBT+ ran the ‘Other Stories’ project. This was our first LGBT+ History Project dedicated to telling other stories from Derbyshire’s LGBT+ community history. Launched in 2017 to coincide with 50 years since the landmark 1967 Sexual Offences Act, it recorded people’s memories and delved into archives to find “other stories” of interest to the LGBT+ community.

The ‘Our Stories’ project will last for 3 years and build on some of the previous research. This time we’re dividing our time to explore

LGBT+ stories

For the LGBT+ Stories, we want to hear from LGBT+ people who currently live or have previously lived, worked or studied in Derby or Derbyshire and document your stories, your lives, your experiences, past and present. Whether it is about growing up, coming out, finding community, finding love or simply living your truth we’d like you to make contact.

HIV Stories

For the HIV Stories, we aim to explore the history of HIV / AIDS in Derby and Derbyshire. We’re keen to hear from people living with HIV. Those who lost loved ones during the early days of the AIDS epidemic. Friends and family carers supporting people with HIV and healthcare professionals who have supported people through it.

‘Our Stories’ aims to preserve and honour our history and amplify the stories that deserve to be heard.

How to get involved:

  • Sharing your memories

  • Being an ambassador for the project

  • Interviewing people and recording memories

  • Transcribing recordings and documents

  • Conducting research online or in libraries

  • Supporting displays and exhibitions

  • Helping to catalogue our archive

  • Download a poster to display or share

 

Complete the enquiry form

Email the project team - Laurence and Lucy – heritage@derbyshirelgbt.org.uk