June is Pride Month, it is a time when the rainbows come out and the parades all over the country begin, continuing until late summer. But why June? And why the marches? June 28 is the anniversary of the Stonewall riots, where the LGBTQ+ patrons of the eponymous bar fought back against a police raid on the establishment. We can trace the origins of Pride marches to this event. Marches create banners, placards and other paraphernalia – the very stuff of social history.

This is a time when museums look to the LGBTQ stories in their collections. These stories are not always immediately apparent. Pride allows us a chance to consider how queer identities and same-sex desires are reflected in our collections and celebrate them. Jack will explore and discuss tips and techniques to find and share these stories and share some helpful resources.

Jack Shoulder is an LGBTQ Researcher working with the Goldsmith’s Centre for Queer History. He has developed LGBTQ research and programming for Towner Art Gallery, the V&A and the British Museum. He has also delivered training on finding and sharing LGBTQ objects internationally. Currently, Jack is a Learning Manager with English Heritage, working with sites across England. Jack is working with the Queer Heritage Forum and is co-coordinating their online pride programme.

@jackshoulder / @QHForum / #QHFPride2020