New app explores LGBT histories in Manchester

At an event this evening at Manchester Central Library, the Manchester Pride charity unveiled a new digital platform that aims to celebrate LGBT history in Greater Manchester. 

Compatible with smartphones, the OUT! web app can be used in conjunction with a heritage trail around Manchester, bringing to life key moments in LGBT history at the locations where they occurred. 

The trail was created in 2003 as part of EuroPride, when rainbow tiles were installed at locations around the city, but the new app previewed today allows individuals to experience the tour for themselves rather than having to be led by a tour guide. 

The app includes an interactive timeline, researched by journalist Beth Ashton, which aims to uncover invisible stories in LGBT history across the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester.

Users can also find out how to access material within Manchester's existing physical archives through the app.

Contribute your own stories

The app will continue to evolve over time as users are encouraged to contribute their own material and tell their own stories. Through the app they can get in touch with Manchester Pride and share their memories, which will be added to the collection and help locate new sites for further rainbow tiles around the city. 

"Our aim for the web app is not only to secure a digital record of the city's significant LGBT legacy, but to educate and engage with local people and tourists about key chapters of Manchester's past and the difficulties LGBT people faced over the years," said Mark Fletcher, chief executive of Manchester Pride. 

"We're certain that the ground-breaking platform will play a vital part in keeping alive the spirit of this colourful history, now and in the future."

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[Manchester Pride]

"OUT! has been an eye-opening project for all involved," added the initiative's project manager, Abigail Ward. "Manchester's endlessly fascinating lesbian gay, bisexual and trans histories... have often remained hidden due to legislation and social stigma. We are very excited about our forthcoming training days, which will empower members of the community who want to preserve LGBT histories for future generations." 

The app has been developed by E3 Creative and funded by a Heritage Lottery Grant. It has taken a year to develop, with Manchester Pride spending that time developing, creating and collating information for use. 

It will be available to use from next week. 

As a charity, Manchester Pride campaigns for equality and challenges discrimination; creates opportunity for engagement and participation and celebrates lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender (LGBT) life. It organises events throughout the year including the Manchester Pride festival. 

Two free events for those interested in learning how to record experiences and exploring the OUT! app take place over the coming days: 

An Introduction to Researching Archives, Chief Librarian’s Office, Central Library, Manchester, 11 June, 10am and 2pm, free, book here

An Introduction to Recording Oral Histories, International Anthony Burgess Foundation, Manchester, 18 June, 10am, free, book here

For more info, head to manchesterpride.com

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