Honoring Trans+ Voices: Trans+ History Week shines a light on hidden histories

This week, from May 5–11, the UK is celebrating Trans+ History Week, a much-needed initiative that uplifts the stories and legacies of transgender, non-binary, gender-diverse, and intersex people – stories too often erased from mainstream history.

Launched in 2024 by QueerAF and Trans+ creative Marty Davies, this week marks a historic moment and dedicated week to exploring Trans+ heritage. Positioned just ahead of Pride Month, the week is a powerful prelude that focuses on reflection, education, and celebration – offering content, exhibitions, and events that delve into the rich and resilient past of Trans+ communities across the globe.

In a major announcement ahead of this year’s celebration, Trans+ History Week and QueerAF unveiled the 2025 Trans+ Workbook, a project born from over 80 hours of research led by Gray Burke-Stowe. The workbook aims to challenge harmful narratives and stereotypes about Trans+ identities in politics, media, and society by spotlighting hidden histories that demand to be told. You can read more about the workbook and its impact here.

Trans+ History Week’s mission is clear: to reclaim a millennia-old history that transcends colonial erasure, legal marginalisation, and societal misunderstanding. Backed by prominent LGBTQ+ and Trans+ organizations including myGwork, this initiative also benefits from the leadership of visible and vocal role models like Marty Davies, who speaks openly about why representation matters now more than ever. Click here to read the interview.

Trans+ History Week is not just a moment of remembrance – it's a call to action, a celebration, and a reassertion of presence. As history is reclaimed, re-examined, and reimagined, this week offers everyone the opportunity to learn, reflect, and stand in solidarity. Adding a joyful spark to the week’s reflection, "This Cisn’t Funny!", a Trans+ stand-up comedy showcase, hits the stage on May 9. Featuring an all Trans+ line-up, the event celebrates humor, joy, and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges – raising funds for Trans+ History Week and serving up laughter, thanks to support from Diageo. More details here.