Celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month with pro-manchester

Last week (08 February 2024) I had the delight in attending a networking evening hosted by pro-manchester. The event was in recognition of LGBTQ+ history month, celebrated annually, where we observe the tribulations and celebrate the successes of the LGBTQ+ community and aim to promote education surrounding diversity and inclusion.

We were hosted in the beautiful setting that is the Manchester Marriot Victoria & Albert Hotel which offers a blend of historical charm and modern comfort set in the heart of Manchester City; where the staff were both welcoming and attentive, creating the perfect setting for the event.

This evening was a wonderful opportunity to create new connections, discuss important topics with like minded individuals, enjoy some delicious food; and, most importantly, recognise LGBTQ+ history month – for which each year a new theme for awareness and education is chosen.

In keeping with this year’s theme of ‘Medicine’ our educational segment of the evening was hosted by the incredibly dynamic and knowledgeable Lisa Wright, Founder of Menopause The Wright Way.

Lisa provided insight into why ‘Menopause isn’t just a “middle age” female issue…’ which was both informative and engaging.

Creating an awareness that menopause affects everyone regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation and how as a manager, partner, or friend you can support an individual going through this lifechanging event, which can include 34 symptoms and sometimes last up to 10 years!

Touching on the ‘middle age’ bias viewpoint, Lisa demonstrated how menopause can start earlier than expected due to Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) when the ovaries cease working prior to the age of 40, and how menopause can be brought on by endometriosis, medical and surgical procedures.

There is surprisingly very little research and funding regarding menopause, despite its impact on millions of people’s health and mental well-being and even less research through an LGBTQ+ lens, however over recent years it has become a more widely discussed topic.

While this was only touching on the surface of menopause; Lisa’s educational section captivated the audience and really left us with ‘food for thought’ to take away with us; it was truly impactful.

Sandwiching Lisa’s educational piece we had the opportunity to mingle; exchanging ideas and experiences with the other attendee’s who all came from different sectors around the Greater Manchester area.

We thank you for all those involved and to all who attended in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and in making this evening incredibly enjoyable! I look forward to attending more Pro-Manchester events throughout 2024.

-Leah Piercy
 She/Her