Queer rights in Burnley?

[friendofdorothy]

Anyone here in Burnley or surrounds?

CHE (Campaign for Homosexual Equality) are hoping to put on a event there in July to celebrate a public meeting that took place in Burnley Library 50 years ago. Who knew there was a revolutionary event there so long ago - I grew up in Lancashire and had no idea.

I'd be interested to hear from anyone in Burnley or any former CHE members.

 

[friendofdorothy]

Lancashire even? Manchester?

50 years ago there was a rowdy public meeting in Burnley Library, 30th july 1971. Some London GLF people travelled up to attend and show solidarity. GLF member Andrew Lumsden encouraged all the homosexuals in the room to 'stand up' - apart from a few Christian bigots and some skinheads, and most of the audience did stand up, including some supportive straight people.

Someone from National Council or Civil Liberties said 'If civil Liberty is threatened in Burnley, it is threatened all over the world'.

There are plans to put up a blue plaque on the library and hold some sort of reunion celebration in July.