Manchesters LGBT Centre: We Were Born in The 80s

This walking tour will tell the story of how Manchester became the first place to build an entirely publicly funded, purpose designed centre for the gay community, just as Thatcher’s government were enacting Section 28.

It follows the money, as it were, from the Town Hall to Canal Street and then to Sidney Street and one of the city’s most diverse urban blocks, home to an evangelical church and conference centre, a plethora of fast-food takeaways and a pub, Manchester’s Islamic Centre, a veggie wholefoods cooperative as well as the LGBT Centre!

The story is one of unlikely success in the face of the public funding landscape, some hostile political foes and an infamous 147 signature petition. It is also one which perfectly shows the change in public sector funding from the 80s to the present day. Above all, it is a heartening story of community spirit and perseverance.

Meet in the community gallery at Peoples History Museum. We will finish at The LGBT Centre on Sidney Street (just off Oxford Road). A thriving community hub with exciting future plans. it’s the perfect place for post-walk tea, cake and story swapping. All attendees will receive a free zine

This event is part of Loitering With Intent: The Art and Politics of Walking in Manchester and Beyond at The Peoples History Museum.