LGBT+ History Month 2023

February is LGBT+ History Month, and as 2023 marks 35 years since the introduction of Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 – and 20 years since its repeal – I thought I would have a look through our student newspapers to see how the University of Hull’s students reacted to the controversial legislation.

Here at the History Centre we hold copies of the University's student newspapers from the beginning of University College Hull back in 1928. At that time the student union’s newspaper was Torch, and over time the newspaper became Torchlight (in 1956) and then Hullfire (in 1974). The student newspapers give a fascinating insight into student life at various times, showing us what Hull students cared and protested about, as well as what they watched and listened to, and where they went on their nights out.

Extract from Hullfire, 15 Feb 1988

Section 28 definitely received some coverage from Hullfire in 1988. In the 15 February issue, a piece called "Coming Out in Style" reported that "The 'Gay Awareness' week was described as 'a success' by the Chair of the society". There was "a good turnout" for a meeting with a speaker about Clause 28 (as it was referred to before the Local Government Bill became law) and a benefit disco raised £232 to "be used to publicise the effect of Clause 28".

Extract from Hullfire, 29 Feb 1988

In the 29 February issue, Hullfire reported on an anti-Clause 28 demonstration held in Manchester, which 100 students from Hull had attended. The report also addressed the potential effect on students, saying "The legislation could be interpreted in such a way that student unions would be prevented from financing gay and lesbian societies. There are also fears that gay students who 'come out' will be in danger of losing their local authority grants as they could be seen to be promoting homosexuality."

Extract from Hullfire, 3 Oct 1988

After the Local Government Bill became law, in October 1988 Hullfire reported on "the continuing struggle".  Encouraging readers to continue to protest, the writers noted that "The campaign against Clause 28 has been as inspiring as it has been unexpected. It has been both broad-based in support and imaginative in content. The willingness to explore new and inclusive forms of protest has drawn many people who have previously felt marginalised by, and hostile to, the 'democentric' methods of political activity."

We can definitely see from these pieces the depth of feeling that many students had about this legislation. The student newspapers also contain lots of information about other campaigns and protests over the 95 years of the University's existence. If you'd like to investigate for yourself, you can order the papers in our searchroom with the reference U SUH.