Military Pride - Imperial War Museum North

This week-end sees the opening at the northern branch of the Imperial War Museum of a small display which reveals via portrait photography and personal testimony the experiences of LGBT people within the context of conflict, war and military service. Military Pride also details changes in historical and cultural context and a timeline of post 1945 legislation and policies within the Armed Forces and is timed to connect with the Manchester Pride Festival.

The display of 12 personal testimonies reflects through contributors’ own words how war and conflict have shaped people in the LGBT communities' lives from 1945 to the present day. As well as reflecting adversity the display aims to celebrate the achievements and reflect the positive contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities to the Armed Forces and examine how experiences may have changed since 1945.

Catherine Roberts, Visitor Programmes Manager, Imperial War Museum North says: "The experience of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, within the context of conflict, war and military service, is arguably still a largely hidden history. Through this small but important display hopefully we can make a step towards helping to reveal and celebrate it."

An intimate, temporary display, Military Pride will have a permanent legacy as the histories collected will form part of Imperial War Museum’s collections for future generations and it is hoped that the display will also tour.

Imperial War Museum North has a 3-year history of delivering tours and events relating to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender experience in war and conflict from the First World War to the present day, reflecting the Museum's focus on how war has shaped and continues to shape peoples lives.

To view a timeline on equal rights in the armed forces from 1955 onward, click here

Related free events

A Closer Look Tour: Pride
Fri 15, Mon 18, Wed 20 & Fri 22 August 1.30pm
A free tour focusing on the hidden histories of LGBT communities in periods of war and peacekeeping.

Military Pride Night
Main Exhibition Space, Saturday 16 August 6.30 – 8.30pm
A tour of the WaterWay exhibition, good company and a drink, celebrating the contributions of LGBT communities in the armed services. There will be an opportunity for a Q&A with the curators during the evening. booking required on 0161 836 4007.

Military Pride
12 July – 12 October
Admittance is free
Imperial War Museum North
The WaterWay
Manchester
Website