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Author: Graham Robson

Keighley Cougars Rugby League club makes history with nomination of India Willoughby as patron

Posted on by Graham Robson

Keighley Cougars Rugby League club has announced the appointment of trans activist India Willoughby as their patron, marking a groundbreaking moment as the world’s first transgender individual to serve as patron of a professional sports club.

India, a pioneer in her own right as Britain’s first transgender newsreader and TV journalist, has long been an advocate for trans rights. According to Keighley Cougars, her nomination “aligns perfectly with the ongoing efforts of Kaue and Ryan, owners of the club, to foster a more inclusive sporting environment”.

Ryan said: “With visibility comes understanding, and this appointment reinforces that notion. We need more representation of trans individuals in all spheres to combat the pervasive stigma.”

The 2024 season for Keighley Cougars will be dedicated to promoting Trans Rights Are Human Rights, with India leading the charge. Ryan added: “Keighley Cougars have always been at the forefront of promoting inclusivity and sparking meaningful dialogue. This appointment is another step forward in our positive approach.”

India expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating: “I’m thrilled to represent this incredible club that is challenging societal norms. My community has faced unjust scrutiny for too long, and all I aim to do is represent this club to the best of my ability while advocating for understanding and acceptance.”

In addition to the appointment, Keighley Cougars unveiled their special trans-inspired kit, which will be worn by players during their annual Pride fixture on July 7, 2024, against Rochdale Hornets. All profits from the sale of the kit will be donated to trans charity Mermaids, which provides services directly to trans children and young people, families and business to educate and inform professionals and organisations who want to be part of a society where trans children and young people are safe, included and empowered to be their best selves.

Kaue Garcia adds: “Hopefully we will be able to donate thousands of pounds to this amazing charity to promote education and understanding to the trans community. Since 2019, that’s our mission, our motto and our ethos. Making sure we are an inclusive club to all, as everyone deserves to be heard and respected above all.”

The trans-inspired kit can be purchased via the Cougars website in due course.

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer calls for ban on trans athletes competing in female-only events

Posted on by Graham Robson

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer has called for trans athletes to be banned from competing in female-only events, writing that sports’ governing bodies needed to set out an “unambiguous position” on the issue, amid rows over trans athletes participating in female-only events.

Frazer wrote: “In competitive sport, biology matters. And where male strength, size and body shape gives athletes an indisputable edge, this should not be ignored.

“By protecting the female category, they can keep women’s competitive sport safe and fair and keep the dream alive for the young girls who dream of one day being elite sportswomen.

“We must get back to giving women a level playing field to compete. We need to give women a sporting chance.”

While cricket and footballing authorities have not yet passed a ban, cycling, swimming, rowing and athletics have put rules in place to prevent trans athletes participating in female-only competitions.

Earlier this year, US swimmer Lia Thomas gained global recognition by becoming the first transgender athlete to win a college title, but has not competed since 2022 when World Aquatics introduced new rules in 2022 prohibiting anyone who has undergone male puberty from competing in women’s events. Thomas is now taking legal action to compete at the top level once more.

Peccadillo Pictures secures Iris Prize-winning film ‘Norwegian Dream’

Posted on by Graham Robson

Peccadillo Pictures has secured Iris Prize award-winning film Norwegian Dream, which will be released on streaming on 29 April.

Directed by Leiv Igor Devold, the film tells the story of Robert, a young Polish immigrant, who arrives in Norway to work for a fish factory in hopes of paying off his mother’s rising debts. Suppressing his true self to fit in with the other Poles at the factory, Robert develops feelings for Ivar, the out and proud son of the factory owner who also moonlights as a drag performer.

As the two get to know each other, a worker’s strike breaks out and Robert is faced to decide on his future: will he choose financial stability or his community?

A striking and honest portrayal of the intersecting limits of class and culture, Norweigan Dream won Hubert Milkowski the Best Performance in A Male Role (Feature Film) Award at the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Cardiff last year.

KKWEER Arts exhibition, curated by Gemma Rolls-Bentley and Ell Pennick, to feature some of the biggest names in LGBTQ+ art

Posted on by Graham Robson

Lead Pic: Samantha Pepys and the Biological Lie by Lulu Bennett

KKWEER Arts is to present Ultraviolet, a powerful and thought-provoking group exhibition which delves into the intricate world of coded language, symbols, and gestures nestled within queer communities.

The exhibition features some of the biggest names in queer art, including new work by the iconic Maggi Hambling and a selection of new and existing works by Ajamu X, Lulu Bennett, Kudzanai-Violet Hwami, Olivia Sterling, Shadi Al-Atallah, Elsa Rouy, Zach Toppin, Sadie Lee, Dale Lewis, Ebun Sodipo, Sola Olulode, Sarah Jane Moon, Eva Dixon, Whiskey Chow, Sarah-Joy Ford, SHARP and Kevin Kane. More to be announced.

Curators of this show, Gemma Rolls-Bentley and Ell Pennick, bring together this strong group of queer artists whose work comes together to weave a vibrant tapestry of identity, inviting exploration into the depths of queer visual coding. The exhibition shines a light on the clandestine languages that have empowered individuals and fostered community bonds as tactics of survival.

Through a range of mediums, the featured work explores a rich history of coded expressions serving as potent tools of resistance, connection, and self-affirmation. From the subtle subversions of everyday objects to the bold defiance of societal norms, the evolving language of queer coding continues to play an important role. This exhibition invites you to unravel its mysteries and celebrate the diverse expressions of queerness that occur in plain sight and enrich our world.

Kevin Kane, Founder of KKWEER Arts, said “We are thrilled to highlight the exceptional talents of these artists, furthering our dedication to uplifting and celebrating LGBTQ+ creators. In a world increasingly divided, it’s imperative that we not only advocate for queer visibility but also emphasise the importance of queer joy. Our exhibition serves as a beacon of hope, offering a space where diverse voices can unite, fostering understanding and acceptance.”

Narcissus ©Kevin Kane

“We are excited to bring our curatorial voices together to further KKWEER Arts mission to support LGBTQ+ artists. By exploring the intricate nuances of queer visual coding, Ultraviolet not only pays homage to the past but also ignites vital conversations about the present and future of LGBTQ+ expression. Our exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity, community, and resilience in the face of adversity” added curators Gemma Rolls-Bentley and Ell Pennick.

The exhibition is from 4-14 July at 15 Bateman Street, London, W1D 3AQ.

Pose star Billy Porter delivers powerful speech at Miami Beach Pride about resilience of LGBTQ+ community, particularly during AIDS epidemic

Posted on by Graham Robson

Post star Billy Porter delivered a powerful speech about the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly during the height of the AIDS epidemic, at this year’s Miami Beach Pride on April 12.

Billy, who was presented with the keys to Miami Beach at the event, said: “I was 16 years old at the beginning of the AIDS crisis. We didn’t have the luxury to hide. We didn’t have the luxury to not be active. We had to go straight to the front lines to fight for our lives, and that’s exactly what we did. We came together as a community, we fought back, and we succeeded in. Yes, the world changed because we came together.

“We’re now in a position where we must come together again. We must fight the forces of evil that are trying to destroy us. The one thing that I do know, and the one message that I try to exude everywhere I go, is that the change has already happened. We don’t have any time for fear. Toni Morrison says, this is precisely the time when artists go to work. There’s no need for fear. There’s no room for silence. We speak, we write, we do language. This is how civilizations heal.

“I’m an artist. The only way I know how to do it is through my art. I am grateful that I can do it through my art. I am grateful that the people are receiving that, that you are receiving what it is that I’m trying to do. (…) Coming from the civil rights movement, you know, there’s a song called A Change Is Gonna Come. I love that song, but the change came, and the change went. What are we gonna do now?

“It’s time for all of us to come together and figure out what ‘going high’ looks like in this new world order. It is not 1963. We cannot use the same tactics. I am not a politician, so I don’t know what the answer is. But it’s not what we’re doing now. It’s time to re-engage. It’s time to pay attention again. It’s time to get in these streets again. This is not a parade, it’s a march. That’s what it was when we started. This march [is] political.”

Psychology academic receives prestigious grant to develop self-help resource for trans and gender-non-conforming people

Posted on by Graham Robson

A University of Northampton (UON) lecturer is preparing to help people navigate their transition to a different gender identity with research supported by a highly prized grant.

Dr Luke Ward from the Centre for Psychological and Sociological Sciences are looking to develop a self-help resource for trans and gender non-conforming people navigating their sexuality.

The British Academy/Leverhulme Small Research Grants are competitive with only 232 of 946 eligible applicants selected to receive a grant. Two of the lucky academics include one from UON – Dr Luke Ward, Lecturer in Child & Adolescent Mental Health – as well as former Associate Lecturer in Psychology, Dr Alastair Pipkin.

Luke and Alastair’s project will focus on co-producing a psychological self-help resource for trans and gender non-conforming people to navigate their gender identities and sexualities. The research commences next month and will be in three phases:

  • Collaborate with community members to co-design the research.
  • The team will hold a workshop with community members and professionals who work with gender diversity to develop an initial draft of the self-help resource.
  • There will be a final testing phase to evaluate the feasibility of the self-help intervention.

Luke and Alastair will use British Academy/Leverhulme Small Research Grants to recruit support from a UON Child and Adolescent Mental Health graduate, an external consultant, and a designer to illustrate and produce the self-help resource, and to also disseminate the findings.

Luke says: “Alastair and I feel incredibly proud to receive such a competitive grant, as we put a lot of consideration and work into the bid.

“This project is a progression from previous research that we have already done at the University to help investigate the intersectional experience of transitioning gender and one’s sexuality.

“This is a largely understudied area with a lack of resources to support communities (and professionals) navigate any potential changes. With support often available only through over-stretched gender health and identity clinics and with self-help measures usually more accessible, scalable, and effective at addressing psychological difficulties, our planned resource will be a much needed and timely additional resource.

“The support from our subject area and the research team has been lovely and has helped build the excitement for starting this project! Alastair and I look forward to revealing the results of our research after the project concludes in November 2025.”

Brighton & Hove’s LGBTQ+ Rainbow Chorus announces sumptuous summer special in June!

Posted on by Graham Robson
Join Brighton & Hove’s LGBTQ+ Rainbow Chorus for a sumptuous summer concert of two halves at St George’s Church, Brighton on Saturday, June 29.

Rainbow Chorus will transport you to the magical world of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, performing his celebrated Stabat Mater, a choral work which will really showcase the skill and ability of the choir. Last performed by the choir in 2012, this will be a passionate and emotional classical experience, so don’t miss out!

Rainbow Chorus will also showcase their fun, uplifting and diverse sound with a mix of modern classics and pop standards including Bring Me Sunshine, May It Be, Total Eclipse Of The Heart, This Is Me and many more.

The evening is hosted by amazing Musical Director Aneesa Chaudhry and new accompanist Olly Parr, supported by BSL interpreter Marco Nardi.

The Rainbow Chorus will also have their famous raffle of beautiful and stuffed hampers and you’ll be able to treat yourself to a glass or two of Pimms from the well-stocked bar.

Rainbow Chorus say: “Get your tickets now and put the date in your diary for what promises to be a fantastic, diverse uplifting evening of entertainment! An evening out with the Rainbow Chorus is more than just going to a concert, it’s an expression of belonging, solidarity and inclusion that defines the very notion of community that many aspire to in Brighton & Hove.”

Tickets HERE

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus to feature in new Danny Dyer documentary – ‘How to Be a Man’

Posted on by Graham Robson

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus is to feature in a new two-part Channel 4 documentary which sees actor Danny Dyer step out of his tough guy persona and embark on an insightful journey into the heart of modern British masculinity.

Danny Dyer: How To Be A Man follows Danny as he delves into the evolving landscape of masculinity. At a time when some believe traditional masculinity has been labelled ‘toxic’ Danny will ask men across Britain what they think it means to be a man in our society, and what the future is for the male identity.

The series will feature interviews with men, including a politician, psychologists, a mental health expert, a fitness expert, a sex therapist, an influencer, male victims of domestic abuse, and members of the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus to offer a range of voices and perspectives on this complex subject.

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus said: “We’re excited to announce that we will be featured in the upcoming Channel 4 documentary How to Be a Man.

“We were delighted to host Danny Dyer at one of our rehearsals where, after a showcase of songs for our upcoming Flying the Flag with Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, he engaged in a candid and insightful discussion with several of our members.

“Our eagerness to participate in this documentary stemmed from a desire to lend a voice to our community, offering diverse insight on masculinity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be a man today. Our involvement extends beyond singing; it’s about expressing the varied experiences and realities of masculine identity in today’s world.

“Tune in and let’s open up the conversation about the perception of masculinity in the modern world.”

Across both films Danny will be exploring gender stereotypes, male attitudes to mental health, and exploring the changing roles of men in society. He will engage in conversations that challenge perceptions and open up a dialogue on what it means to be a modern man in Britain today.

Danny said: “As an actor, I’ve played countless characters, but now I am making a documentary about what the evolving place of men really is. If you were to look on social media, it might seem like people are either completely embracing or rejecting traditional gender roles, without much room for nuance.

“That’s why we wanted to chat to real men that are representative of the UK today, to hear their thoughts on what being a modern man is to them. To me, being a man isn’t about trying to fit a mould, it’s about showing a bit of heart and respecting yourself and others so I’m hoping this documentary gets the geezers talking.”

The first episode of Danny Dyer: How to Be a Man will be broadcast on Channel 4 on Tuesday, April 16 at 10pm.

Katie Vincent to step down as CEO of LGBTQ+ youth charity, Allsorts Youth Project

Posted on by Graham Robson

Katie Vincent, current CEO of LGBTQ+ youth charity Allsorts Youth Project, is to step down at the end of June 2024. Billijean Summerbell will take on the interim CEO role on 1 July, giving the board time to work on a recruitment plan.

In a statement, Katie said: “Allsorts Youth Project has taken some fantastic steps forward in recent years expanding our services across Sussex, and developing our inclusive spaces for marginalised and intersecting identities whilst growing financially better to support LGBT+ children, young people and their families.

“Allsorts is currently in a positive & strong position with an excellent, experienced staff and volunteer team and a dynamic trustee board.

“Having joined the project 11 years ago the time has come for me to do something different and seek new opportunities which is why, as of the end of June, I will be stepping down as CEO.

“Billijean Summerbell will take on the interim CEO role as of the 1 July giving the board time to work on a recruitment plan, whilst Team Allsorts continue to do what they do best – supporting LGBT+ children, young people and their families to reach their full potential.

“None of what Allsorts has achieved over the last decade could have been done without the support from a wide range of people, partners, funders and supporters, including you, so a huge personal thanks to you for your support and allyship over the years.

“This role has been the privilege of my life and I very much look forward to seeing how Allsorts continues to develop their vision of seeing a world where LGBT+ children and young people are free to be themselves.

“Allsorts of Love, Katie Vincent”

Beyond The Binary – A Celebration Of Trans Joy: new exhibition at Jubilee Library to empower and celebrate the trans community

Posted on by Graham Robson

Proud Studios CIC and award-winning photographer Chris Jepson present an exhibition of new work at Brighton’s Jubilee Library from Monday, 22 April – Sunday, 12 May, to coincide with the new Trans+ History Week.

Beyond The Binary – A Celebration Of Trans Joy is a collaboration between Brighton-based award-winning photographer and queer artist Chris Jepson, trans groups including Trans Pride Brighton & Hove, Clare Project, Trans Can Sport, TReNBI FC Brighton, Misfits and Transkaters, as well as numerous trans individuals.

In a world that often struggles to fully embrace diversity and inclusion, Beyond the Binary captures authentic joy, promoting community spirit and empowering the trans community through visibility.

Chris Jepson said: “Right now the trans community is under attack from all sides, politically, legislatively and in the media, and trans hate crime has more than doubled in five years. This exhibition hopes to help counter the negative agenda and spread the pure joy of a community that wants to honour its rich history whilst celebrating its present and future.”

Beyond The Binary – A Celebration Of Trans Joy at Jubilee Library, Jubilee St, Brighton BN1 1GE from Monday, 22 April – Sunday, 12 May. The exhibition is open daily during regular library hours. Free entry. See website for more information.

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