Pride of Forres Academy group promotes LGBT+ History Month at Forres Library

SECONDARY pupils are highlighting LGBT+ History Month with a display in the town centre.

The Pride at Forres Academy (POFA) group invited S1-5 students to contribute to the exhibit at Forres Library around this year’s theme ‘Medicine – #UnderTheScope’.

A POFA spokesperson said: “Members create QR codes for information while being sensitive to recent events concerning LGBT+ representatives in the medical field. They also raised awareness of HIV treatments.”

LGBT+ History Month was created to “reclaim the past, celebrate the present, and create the future” of the movement. The 2024 theme celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to medicine and healthcare, as well as experience.

POFA’s spokesperson confirmed the school community is well aware of the event.

She said: “Principal Teacher Dorothy Ross and Emma Matthias have created up-to-date lessons on the importance the month.”

Regional group Pride in Moray has been promoting LGBT+ History Month in most local libraries.

Chairman David Harrison was not surprised by the quality of POFA's display.

He said: “POFA regularly get involved in various activities, some focussed on equality and diversity, while others are more fun such as crafts to raise money for their group.”

POFA representatives meet with Pride at Forres Academy every Monday.

“We discuss issues that the students may be experiencing,” said David, “and how they might get involved in our festival or smaller projects such as this month’s.”

POFA’s permanent display board highlights events on the community calendar such as Bi and Trans Visibility, and shares helpful website addresses. The group has also recently created a safe online forum and meeting place.

Their spokesperson said: “Our new POFA Microsoft Team already has almost 30 members. Pupils and staff benefit from open discussion and advice, and new members are always welcome.”

POFA is inviting the school community to wear purple on Friday, February 23. The purple in the Pride flag represents the spirit of the LGBT+ community - Purple Friday is an annual event set up by LGBT+ Youth Scotland to raise awareness and promote acceptance.

POFA is also already planning ahead for June’s Pride Month.

“We have lots of ideas, said the spokesperson, “including more fundraising, this time to begin our Forres Academy LGBT Charter status journey.

“We’re working closely with Pride in Moray regarding their festival event in September and planning what to sell on our stall.”