Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community and its allies came together at The Brewers last night for a benefit show, which was being held to mark the one-year anniversary of the devastating loss of Brianna Ghey, whose horrific murder sent shockwaves throughout the UK.
Live Your Truth was organised by trans campaigner and TV personality Jaxon Feeley to raise funds for Peace & Mind UK, a not-for-profit organisation set up by Brianna’s mother, Esther, in memory of her daughter. The organisation aims to promote resilience, empathy and understanding among school children by funding a Mindfulness Teacher in every school across the UK.
The campaign will also involve the creation of resources that teach children how to take better care of their own mental health, as well as fostering a greater understanding and respect for others and the things they may be going through.
Hosted by Gaydio’s Paris Munro and Helen Scott, the event saw performances from JSky, Smashby, Gay Elvis, Christopher Hall, Alexa Vox, Michelle Lawson and Amrick Channa, with all performers volunteering their time in support of the cause.
Prior to the event, Esther Ghey said: “I am over the moon to be part of this event and grateful for the visibility it will bring to Peace & Mind UK. After reaching our target to provide every school within the Warrington area with a mindfulness teacher, my aim now is to raise enough funds to roll this out across the country and provide every child with the resources and opportunity to learn about and take care of their mental health.”
Jaxon Feeley, from Wigan, is passionate about changing the way transgender youth are seen in the world and believes that events like this are essential in shining a light on the community. He explained: “The devastation caused by the senseless murder of Brianna has been deeply felt by all who have followed the story.
“Her family have suffered so much, and I wanted to do something as a show of love and solidarity.”
All funds will go to Peace and Mind UK. Anyone who was unable to attend the event can donate through the crowdfunding page.