From the collection of
Established in 1992, the South West Film & Television Archive collection spans from 1893 to the present day containing more than 250,000 items. Formed from a variety of depositors, including broadcast news and programmes material from the Westward and TSW archive. In 2018 the archive collection transferred to The Box in Plymouth.
A Book of Prayer, for gay and lesbian Christians
Dr Elizabeth Stuart's manuscript 'Daring to Speak Love's Name' focuses on prayers for members of the LGBT community, particularly those who have suffered from HIV/AIDs. Dr Stuart is the professor of Christian Theology at the University of Winchester and founded the academic journal 'Theology and Sexuality'.
Published several times, Dr Stuart has been praised by the LGBTQ+ community, notably receiving the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement Award in 2008. Before publication the manuscript was vetoed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey, saying the book would 'only foster the myth, HIV and AIDs are confined to the homosexual community'. Dr Stuart was upset and disappointed with his decision as she trusted the Bishop's word that he wanted to learn more about homosexuality within the Christian faith.
The church remains very divided about issues of homosexuality. 2021 saw the CofE publish 'Living in Love and Faith', a report on sexuality, marriage and LGBTQ+ issues. It did not propose any change to the Church's official doctrines, but instead offered resources summarising the latest thinking on how the Bible, church traditions and society understand gay marriage and transgender rights. In 2022, the College of Bishops began work on proposals for a way forward.
Shining a spotlight on the individuals at the helm of revolutionary marches, movements and cultural moments across the UK.
The 1980s and decades that followed saw a radical shift in queer and trans visibility nationwide; from the debut of gay and lesbian tv programming, with the first national TV series for and about queer individuals premiering on Channel 4 in 1982 (One in Five), to a rise in community mobilisation and activism. In response to the need for collective care and room for self expression, we also see notable contributions to the arts, as well as the facilitation of safe spaces for queer youth - some of which still exist today!
A selection of these milestones have been highlighted in this collection, alongside oral histories, works that counter misinformation and challenge stereotypes, and films that represent the simple joys of the 'everyday'. It is important to see how attitudes and support for the community has changed over the decades, although somewhat unnerving to see how much has remained the same. A reminder of the urgent need for solidarity, support within communities and advocacy against homophobia / transphobia.
