DfES Drops History Month

8.55.53pm GMT Thu 21st Dec 2006

The Lib Dem spokesperson on LGBT equality has condemned for scrapping tens of thousands of pounds in funding for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month. Liberal Democrat Women and Equality Spokesperson Lorely Burt MP has joined the event's organisers in criticising the decision by the Department for Education and Skills.

Lorely Burt said, "It is despicable that the DfES no longer deems LGBT History Month worthy of funding."

"This event provides the perfect opportunity to teach pupils about the real and positive impact that LGBT people have on our society."

"It provides young people with positive role models and eases the anxiety many young people feel when coming to terms with their sexuality. Anything which promotes positivity and questions social intolerance can only be a good thing."

The DfES has promised to invest the money cut from LGBT History Month in creating anti-homophobic bullying guidelines for schools. Disputing this Lorely Burt said, "The creation of anti-homophobic bullying guidelines is long overdue, and should be provided as a matter of course, not in place of a celebration of LGBT lives. This should not be a matter or 'either or'."

"By endorsing funding cuts to LGBT projects, the DfES are merely seeking to reinforce the belief that LGBT rights are secondary to our society."