B Arts Queer As Stoke
Queer-as-Stoke began as an idea for a map of Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area, locating places and stories of LGBTQIA+ significance. As the project evolved it became clear that not all stories could be pinpointed on a map.
1973 – Stoke’s First Listing in Gay News
The first issue of Gay News was published in May 1972. Over the following year an information page evolved with listings for areas outside London. Stoke’s first listing of pubs and clubs appeared in issue 27 published July 1973.
The Origins of Our Gay Scene
The earliest reference to gay friendly venues comes from oral history passed down within our community. It is said that as early as the 1920s The Unicorn Inn was used a meeting place for men and that during the second world war The Antelope and The Stage Door were well known as gay friendly pubs.
New Era Domestic Abuse Victim Services
New Era aims to end relationship abuse across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent by providing independent support for victims and perpetrators. Specialist support is available for LGBT+ people and others
1977 – Tom Robinson Band Plays in Stoke and Stafford
The Tom Robinson Band were a British rock band, established in 1976. Their song “Glad to Be Gay” is considered a British national gay anthem. In 1977 they played venues in the midlands including Stoke and Stafford.
1918 – Maud Allan Libel Case
In the spring of 1918, famous Canadian dancer and actress, Maud Allan pursued a libel case against right wing MP Noel Pemberton-Billing. The case revolved around an article published in his newspaper “The Vigilante” which was headlined “The Cult of the Clitoris”
Photo Gallery – 2024 Stoke Pride
Take a look at our fab new photo gallery with pictures and video taken at Stoke-on-Trent Pride 2024
Blue Jean
A film exploring the impact of Section 28. The year is 1988 and Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government are about to pass a law stigmatising gays and lesbians, forcing Jean, a PE teacher, to live a double life.
1982 – Latecomer – A Gay Play
In October 1982 the Potteries Gay Community Association applied to stage a gay themed play, “Latecomer” by Eric Presland. After a private council debate two thirds of the committee agreed to the play being presented and it was subsequently staged at the Newcastle Guildhall on Nov 9th.
2005 – Civil Partnerships Begin
The Civil Partnership Act gave legal recognition to a relationship between two people of the same sex. The Sentinel, published articles about the first local Civil Partnerships in 2006.
