6 August 2004

Rt Hon Jacqui Smith MP MINISTER OF STATE FOR INDUSTRY AND THE REGIONS AND DEPUTY MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITY

By e-mail to LGBT networks and groups

LGBT HISTORY MONTH

Dear all,

I was pleased to hear recently about plans by the LGBT communities to designate February each year to be LGBT History Month. As the Government Minister responsible for equality, I am delighted to support this idea.

I hope that lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender groups and their supporters across the country will take the opportunity to participate in the month and organise LGBT events in their areas.

I believe the month will be important in helping to drive the culture change to create a more inclusive society. It will also be a great opportunity to uncover some hidden LGBT histories.

I will be watching progress with interest and look forward to hearing about your events.

Please pass this message of support to all who may be interested in participating in LGBT History Month in February.

Best wishes

JACQUI SMITH MP