This February marks the 18th annual LGBTQ+ History Month celebration in the UK, an important time to recognise and raise awareness of those who have helped shape a brighter future for our LGBTQ+ community. To show Goodfind's support as allies, we've compiled some extraordinary change-makers - both modern heroes and figures from history – whose inspiring achievements were not limited by their sexual orientation.

Why is LGBTQ+ History Month celebrated in February?

In the UK, we celebrate LGBTQ+ history in February as it marks an incredibly important moment in history for the LGBTQ+ community: the end of section 28. While this legislation was abolished as recently as 2003, it prohibited any ‘promotion' of homosexuality and denied many people their right to express themselves freely. LGBTQ+ History Month was initiated in the UK by Schools Out UK and first took place in February 2005.

LGBTQ+ Role Models Who Inspire Us

Shay patten-Walker (1998-2022) (They/Them)

Shay was a young black queer non-binary person based in London who tirelessly used their voice to make positive change. A speaker, activist and volunteer youth worker studying creative digital media; Shay also proudly served as part of Gendered Intelligence's Activist Network (GIANTS), curating campaigns that sought to improve lives worldwide regardless of gender identity or expression. - Shay Walker is truly inspiring to us all!

Lady Phyll (She/her)

Lady Phyll is an unstoppable force in the fight for equality! she works tirelessly to protect and uplift LGBTQ+ people of color. As Executive Director at both UK Black Pride and Kaleidoscope Trust human rights charity, her unrelenting ambition continues to push boundaries - celebrating queer voices that empower QTIPOC around the globe.

Sophie Xeon (1986-2021) (She/her)

A true champion of creative expression, Scottish music producer SOPHIE was renowned for her pioneering work in the 2010s hyperpop microgenre. Her brash and experimental take on pop shook things up, helping to open new doors within an ever-evolving industry while offering a truly distinct sound that resonated with trans and nonbinary people alike. Producing standout tracks for iconic artists such as Charli XCX, Kim Petras and Madonna Sophie's unique style refuses to be forgotten!

Chay Brown (He/him)

Chay is an inspiring advocate for trans rights in the UK and beyond. In 2017, they co-founded TransActual to help combat media transphobia with accurate information about transgender people's lives.

More recently, they spearheaded a monumental effort on behalf of nonbinary individuals and trans men alike - researching into inequality faced by trans people through their work with The Trans Lives Survey 2021 while simultaneously Leading the campaign to reinstate and improve NHS bottom surgery access.

Their leadership has earned them recognition across various radio and television platforms, truly showcasing the power of meaningful advocacy!

When we buy from companies that reflect our values, we vote with our wallets and send a message that these businesses are welcome in our world. Check out our interview with Jack from last year!

An inclusive society where everyone feels empowered to be who they truly are starts which each of us. Explore our selection of sustainable LGBTQ+ supporting brands and tell us if you know others that should be in this list!