Catalogue Number
NMLH.2024.76
Object Name
badge
Title
'National Trust'
People
National Trust
Events
50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality
Description
A rainbow badge with the National Trust oak leaf logo and charity name in white on it.
This badge was created in 2017 by the National Trust, a large heritage organisation caring for historic properties around the UK, during their Prejudice and Pride programming to mark the 50 anniversary of the 1967 partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in England and Wales. This programming in 2017 was the first time the National Trust as a whole organisation explored the LGBTQIA+ histories of their properties, creating exhibitions and conducting in-depth academic research at sites with known LGBTQIA+ residents.
These badges were worn by Trust volunteers, both while working for the Trust, and at a number of Pride festivals around the UK where the National Trust marched for the first time. The Trust experienced backlash from right wing politicians and press in response to their LGBTQIA+ inclusion work, but have continued to document and research LGBTQIA+ heritage within their properties. Heritage industry academics credit the Trust's actions with propelling the whole museum and heritage industry to be bolder in their LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
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