To mark LGBT+ History Month, Knowsley’s Archive Service (The ARK) is calling out to the Borough’s LGBT+ community to submit items into the archive that represent them.
To diversify the archive’s collection and reflect a broader history of Knowsley, members of the LGBT+ community in Knowsley are invited to get in touch with the team and submit something that illustrates their life and experiences.
It can be documents, letters, photographs or even stories that can be audio recorded and submitted into the archive for future generations to listen back to. Residents are also assured that the archive team can take copies of items if the original is too precious to part with.
Carl Phillips, member of Knowsley Council’s LGBT+ Forum said: “It’s crucial that the LGBT+ experience is represented in the archive so in years to come, the history of the borough is a complete one that encompasses everyone who lived here or has a connection with the area.
“You could submit anything that you feel is important in telling your story, whether you have photos of attending protests, tickets to a gig you went to where you met your partner, or a letter sharing the news your adoption submission was successful.”
Cllr Jayne Aston, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “We are committed to creating inclusive and safer communities for our residents. Key to this is accurately representing the lives of our residents and gaining a more meaningful understanding of their experiences. I’d urge anyone who wants to share their story to get in touch – whatever it may be please let us know and we can ensure future generations have the opportunity to know how you helped shape our borough.”
The call out is open now to coincide with LGBT+ History Month but the invitation remains open indefinitely.
Cllr Aston continued: “We are working to create safer and stronger communities all year, so we want to hear people’s stories all year too. Similarly, we want members of all Knowsley’s communities to share their stories. The more stories we collect the richer our archive resource will become.”
If you’d like to get in touch with the Archive Team please email infoheritage@knowsley.gov.uk or call 0151 443 4291