Join Us for “Queering Public Spaces in Westminster" by Professor Pippa Catterall
Date: Wednesday, 12th November
Time: 5:00–7:00 PM
Location: Westminster City Archives, 10 St Ann's Street, at the end of the small alley, London, SW1P 2DF
Pippa Catterall, founder of the academic journal National Identities and co-author of the report Queer Perspectives on Public Space, looks at the work that needs to be done to make sure our communities work for everybody. Have you ever entered a space, a room, a building and felt that you don’t belong there, or that you’re not safe there? For some people, this is a daily occurrence.
Too much public space marginalises rather than includes, whilst safety features are often designed more to protect property than people. The existence of campaigning organisations such as “Make Space for Girls” indicates how much public spaces have not always been designed for all.
So, what makes a space “public”’? And how can such places be made accessible, safe and welcoming? Using examples from in and around Westminster, Professor Pippa Catterall will explore the nature and history of public space and the kind of interventions which might help to make public spaces work for everyone.
Programme
5:00–5:30 PM: Welcome & Introduction
5:30–6:00 PM: “Queering Public Spaces in Westminster" by Professor Pippa Catterall
6:00–6:30 PM: Q&A Session
6:30–6:45 PM: Networking & Socialising
We warmly thank the Councillors of West End and St James’s for awarding us Ward Budget funding, which fully covers the costs of this Westminster Creative Social. Their support helps us keep the event free and accessible to everyone. Thanks to a generous grant for the event, we’re delighted to offer a small buffet and drinks for everyone to enjoy. And at the end of each event, Forum members are welcome to take home a foodie bag — nothing goes to waste, and it’s our way of saying thank you for being part of the community!
Join us to hear these compelling stories, challenge the prevailing narratives, and engage in meaningful discussion. Enjoy wine, snacks, and refreshments throughout the evening as you listen, learn, and connect with lovely people in a welcoming space. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate our history and be part of the conversation!
Lorenzo Belenguer is the Westminster Creative Social founder and curator for the Westminster LGBT+ Forum.
We also keep spaces for Forum members who can attend at the last minute. Also you can RSVP to wlgbtcf@gmail.com if you prefer rather than using the Outsavvy booking system.
#QueeringPublicSpaces #WestminsterCreativeSocial #LGBTVoicesMatter #StoriesThatTransform #QueerAndProud #CommunityThroughArt
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Access: From the street, wheelchair users should be aware there is a downward gradient that leads to a level entrance. The event will take place in the ground floor. There is level access to an accessible toilet.
Westminster City Archives are located on 10 St Ann's Street, London SW1P 2DE between Morrison Court on 12 St Ann’s Street and behind Abbey Community Centre on Great Smith Street. The entrance to the archives is to the right of Morrison Court and then down a short pathway on the left. Please note there is no access to the archives from Great Smith Street. The what 3 words locations is ///tender.fault.ticket. If you are experiencing difficulties finding us please call Westminster Archives on 020 7641 5180.
Acknowledgments: A huge thank you to our supporters and collaborators; this event wouldn't be possible without you.
