Many of the challenges our communities have faced are not distant history. Landmark changes such as the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1982, the introduction of the Gender Recognition Act in 2004, the right for LGBTQIA+ couples to adopt, civil partnerships, and later marriage equality – have all taken place within living memory. These hard-won victories remind us that progress is possible, even when it feels slow or out of reach.

As we move through February, we’re reflecting on the extraordinary progress achieved by LGBTQIA+ communities and the wider global movement in a relatively short space of time. At the same time, we recognise that equality is not yet a given. From the ongoing regression of trans rights closer to home, to the reality that homosexuality remains criminalised in over 60 countries worldwide, our history reminds us why visibility, solidarity, and continued advocacy matter.

This LGBT+ History Month, we honour the global movement that has shaped LGBTQIA+ rights – and the powerful local stories that have built and sustained our community here in Northern Ireland.

Our history is woven from moments of resistance, courage, and solidarity across the world, alongside quieter but no less courageous acts of grassroots activism closer to home. It is shaped by people who spoke up when it wasn’t safe to do so, who showed up for one another, and who pushed for change even when progress felt impossible.

Here in Northern Ireland, our LGBTQIA+ community has been built through resilience, care, and collective action. From organising and campaigning, to creating spaces of safety, joy, and belonging, local voices have played a vital role in shaping the progress we see today. These efforts often led by volunteers, activists, and community members – have helped carve out a future that is more inclusive and more hopeful.

This month is a chance to celebrate how far we’ve come, to honour those who paved the way, and to recognise the many stories that have too often gone unheard. It is also a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still vital work to do to ensure equality, dignity, and safety for everyone in our community.

By learning from our past and standing together in the present, we continue to build a future rooted in inclusion, compassion, and hope where everyone is free to live authentically and proudly.

This year, we’re inviting supporters to run in aid of The Rainbow Project, helping us continue our work supporting LGBTQIA+ people across Northern Ireland. By taking part, you’ll be helping to raise vital funds that support our services, advocacy work, and community programmes.

We have a limited number of charity places available, so if you’ve been thinking about taking on the Belfast City Marathon and want to make your miles count, we’d encourage you to sign up as soon as possible.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your first marathon, you’ll be running with purpose – and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.

Filmed on location in Antrim Area Hospital’s Breast Imaging Unit, the series brings together LGBTQIA+ sector staff and NHS radiographers for open, honest conversations. Together, they share accurate, accessible, and affirming information about what to expect from breast and chest imaging, how screening works, and how services can better support trans and non-binary patients. These discussions are grounded in compassion, respect, and a shared commitment to inclusive healthcare.

With thanks to Belfast Trans Resource Centre, Northern Trust HSCNI, and our funders at Macmillan Cancer Support, this series forms part of Screening for All and is delivered by the Cancer Champions team at The Rainbow Project. At its core, the project is about ensuring trans and non-binary people feel seen, informed, and supported when engaging with cancer screening and health services.