Museums And Archives

We're Still Here Blackpool!

This project expands on 'We're Still Here!' queer heritage pilot in 2021-2022 that empowered LGBTQIA+ community members to share oral histories and images of queer life in Blackpool. This project will create a new digital archive of LGBTQIA+ heritage, supported by cultural programmes. LGBTQIA+ residents and community will have uncovered and learnt about hidden LGBTQIA+ Blackpool heritage, resulting in a greater sense of belonging, improved wellbeing and connection with Blackpool’s past LGBTQIA+ communities. The town’s arts and heritage organisations will have LGBTQIA+ inclusive collections development practice, policies, and framework for future LGBTQIA+ inclusive programming and displays. Abingdon Studios will have improved organisational and financial stability, with greater capacity to lead and initiate queer heritage projects. Blackpool will have developed a queer culture and civic pride in its significant LGBTQIA+ heritage with a legacy of LGBTQIA+ archive material and collaborations for queer cultural programming at the heart of Blackpool’s cultural offer.