Wood Green Arts Charity Wise Thoughts Receives Waltham Forest LGBT History Month #GFESTbytes commission

London Borough of Waltham Forest is proud to announce that Wise Thoughts will be delivering an exciting programme of events for LGBT History Month 2017.

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) History Month is celebrated annually each February in the UK and presents an opportunity for Waltham Forest to celebrate its rich diversity and for residents to gain greater awareness and understanding of the differences and commonalities shared amongst families, friends, colleagues and neighbours. The 2017 theme set by the national LGBT History Month campaign is Citizenship, PSHE and Law, to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of male homosexuality in England and Wales (1967 Sexual Offences Act).

Wise Thoughts, an arts charity based in Wood Green, have made a name for themselves by organising GFEST- Gaywise FESTival®, an annual cross arts festival taking place all over London every November. To help celebrate LGBT History Month in Waltham Forest, Wise Thoughts will present '#GFESTbytes' - a series of film screenings, workshops and authors’ talks culminating in a cabaret extravaganza at Mirth, Marvel & Maud on 24^th February.

Wise Thoughts' artistic director Niranjan Kamatkar FRSA said, “We are excited to win this contract and continuing the partnership this year with LGBT History Month and Schools OUT, when we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of male homosexuality in England and Wales.”

“The #GFESTbytes program promises to be an exciting and enjoyable opportunity for LGBT and straight people alike. It highlights the rich diversity that exists in LGBT arts, culture and communities.” He added.

Council Leader Chris Robbins said: “We’re hugely proud to be such a vibrant and diverse borough, and events like these are a wonderful way to bring residents with different backgrounds and beliefs together to celebrate as one community. As well as giving people a chance to gain greater awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ community, it also showcases the valuable contribution it has made to society.”

The programme has been Wise Thoughts website providing details and booking links to each event.