Think pink at free exhibition

Diversity champions from Tower Hamlets have funded a fascinating free exhibition that opens today uncovering the story of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people in the East End to celebrate LGBT Month this February.

Hosted by Museum in Docklands the exhibition ‘Out in Time’ runs between 13 February to 9 March 2007 and explores a struggle against adversity and oppression. Looking back over the centuries, this display tells the tale of LGBT people’s fight to gain recognition and equality, investigating individual plights as well as national movements.

Councillor Anwara Ali, Lead Member for Equalities, Tower Hamlets Council said: “Along with our partners we’re proud to be shedding light on an important and often neglected part of our heritage. Together we hope to raise the profile of the issues that effect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered members of the community.”

She added,”Tower Hamlets Council was recently voted the most gay-friendly London council and we’re continuing to work hard to make sure that we’re fully inclusive, with diversity and equality sitting at the heart of what we do.”

A special launch event was held to officially unveil the exhibition on Monday 12 February. Sponsored by Citigroup the event welcomed Deputy Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Councillor Ann Jackson and Carolanne Minashi, Head of Diversity and Talent Management at Citigroup. The fabulous and ever popular Pink Singers, London’s gay and lesbian choir were also on hand to serenade the guests as they enjoyed the exhibition.

"Citigroup are delighted to support the Out in Time exhibition, reflecting both our involvement in the local communities in which we are present, and our ongoing activities to ensure Citigroup is the employer of choice for LGBT employees in the financial services sector" said Carolanne Minashi, Head of Diversity and Talent Management.

The 'Out in Time' exhibition has received funding from Tower Hamlets Council, Lehman Brothers, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse and the Primary Care Trust (PCT). All are Stonewall diversity champions.

Museum in Docklands is located on West India Quay, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4AL and is open from Monday to Sunday between 10:00am to 6:00pm. For more information contact 0870 444 3855.

The exhibition will be available for loan to local schools and community groups. For more information contact Isabelle Colombeau on 020 7364 4723.

Ends

Press release issued: February 13 2007