It is well known today that Iran is one of the most dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ people. However, thanks to the actions and determination of one woman, Maryam Khatoon Molkara, Iran now carries out more sex reassignment surgeries than all but one country.
LGBTQ+
Lesbianism in Medieval Arabia: ‘The Encyclopedia of Pleasure’
Lesbianism was discussed in medieval Arabic writings as far back as the 9th century. One text even tells the tale of the so-called first lesbian couple and how their love was so great that it transcended death itself.
Kristina of Sweden
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a king in possession of a crown, must be in want of a son. So much so, in King Gustav II of Sweden's case, that his daughter was at first announced as a son. Yet the future Queen Kristina would soon prove to be far more than what was then expected of her sex.
Queer Women in STEM
Discrimination against LGBT+ people is still widespread, and this also applies to STEM. Similar to women and people of colour, evidence has shown that the STEM fields are sometimes not accessible to queer people.
LGBTQ+ Reading and Movie Recs
Some media recommendations focused on LGBTQ+ characters and plots.
LGBTQ+ Couples – Summary
A summary for February 2022's theme - LGBTQ+ Couples!
LGBTQ+ Couples: Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West
"I am reduced to a thing that wants Virginia..." The love affair of Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West was colourful and lively, and the impact the two women had on each other and their work can scarcely be measured.
LGBTQ+ Couples: Anne Lister and Ann Walker
Gay marriage has only been legal across the UK for just over two years, after legislation took effect in Northern Ireland on 13th January 2020. However, the first lesbian ‘wedding’ actually took place a little short of two centuries before, when Anne Lister and Ann Walker wedded at Holy Trinity Church in York in 1834.
L is for… LGBT+
I want to tell you a story. It starts like any other - girl meets girl. Girl gets confusing feelings for girl. Girl has a months-long identity crisis and comes out the other side scared and unsure, with a secret she can hardly admit to herself, let alone others. She is bisexual.
D is for… Daughters of Bilitis
In 1955, four lesbian couples came together in search of a space to socialise away from the fear of harassment and police raids. What began as a private club soon turned into a national organisation, which became crucial to the understand and acceptance of lesbianism in 1950s and 60s America.