LGBT Friendly

* *Please note: TO OBTAIN THE LINK FOR JOINING OUR MEETINGS, PLEASE MESSAGE ME, CAPRICE JACKSON, THE GROUP ORGANISER. We will send you a few simple questions first, so please allow enough time.* *** **A very big welcome to our friendly Queer and inclusive writing group!** **We meet every week on Monday evenings (UK time) and have been going since 2018.** **Here's the schedule of the group:** 7.30-9.00 Say hi and personal writing time 9.00-9.30 Discussion\* The aim of the group is to provide a shared and safe space for people who regard themselves as part of the Queer community to write together. It is intended for you to work on your own writing, whatever form that takes. You can drop in and drop out as you wish. \* The discussion is open and can take different directions. Typically, it focuses on writing: sharing of work, asking and answering questions, and so on. Taking part is optional. Very best wishes, Caprice Artwork: Caprice - *Connect.*

Join us at the library to get involved in improving content about LGBTQ+ lives and history on the world’s largest online encyclopaedia! If you would like to play a part in making knowledge accessible and to get together as a community, the Brixton meet-up will show you the ropes to becoming a skilled Wikipedia editor. This month we will focus on enhancing articles about LGBTQ+ history in the UK. We will have a closer look at LGBTQ+ in art and film and contribute to Wikipedia with the help of local history resources. Our training team will explain how to upload files, how to copy-edit articles and more. This edition of the Wikipedia Meetup will focus on how to create items on Wikidata and on the basics of notability guidelines. To make the most out of the session, you can explore Brixton Library’s materials at your disposal and access subscription-based databases (like the British Newspaper Archives) for free! Complete newcomers are welcome to join! There will be fellow editors on hand who can show you the first steps of editing and help you kickstart your Wikipedia journey. For more experienced editors, we will also continue working on the themed [worklist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Colette_Lambeth/LGBTQ_History_Month_Edit-a-thon) from last year. If you are already a Wikipedia editor, you can register on meta here: [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meetup/Brixton/14](https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meetup/Brixton/13) You are welcome to bring your own laptop or use the library computers. The event will take place on the ground floor of Brixton Library near computers 5 to 8.

We're hosting our regular peer support group for lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer and questioning women. We look forward to welcoming you if you can make it. Our attendees are a diverse mix of women and are friendly, non-judgmental and inclusive of new people. During the session we talk over topics by sharing our own experience. We cover any topics our attendees would like to raise (we write them down anonymously at the start of the session) they might be things like "how do I find queer friends?" , "managing the holiday season with an unsupportive family", "coming out at work", "bi invisibility" , "internalised homophobia" , "lgbt book recommendations?", "any dating app recommendations?". The session is facilitated by volunteers from the charity London Friend. Our group meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 7pm to 9pm. We're aware it can sometimes be intimidating to join a group like this for the first time, so please reach out to our friendly volunteers if you'd like more information. We can be contacted via Meetup or by emailing changes@londonfriend.org.uk. If you'd like to join and listen without participating further that's ok too. MeetUp is one of the many platforms where people can find this event, and so the number of meetup RSVP's doesn't match the actual number of attendees. If you'd like to join without RSVPing on Meetup you can simply turn up 7pm at the London Friend location.

**Workout with PRIDE (Functional Strength) at Marshall Street, just around the corner from Carnaby S**treet! Join us for our weekly **WorkOUT With PRIDE** class, designed to boost your functional strength and improve your body’s ability to move efficiently as a whole. Our sessions focus on exercises that engage all planes of movement, incorporating both bodyweight and equipment-based resistance to build strength and coordination. This class is suitable for all fitness levels, so if you’re new, no worries! We’ll break down the big compound movements step by step, ensuring you feel confident before diving into the full workout. At *Workout with Pride*, our goal is for you to leave feeling accomplished, empowered, and more knowledgeable about your fitness journey. **Class Details:** * **Location:** Marshall St, London W1F 7EL**Time:** Please arrive by **6:30 pm** (changed and ready to go) * **What to Expect:** Full access to changing rooms and showers post-class. Don’t forget to bring a towel and some change for the lockers! When you arrive, just head to reception and let them know you’re there for **Workout with PRIDE**.

This is a mixed ability night, however this is not a beginners session. We do ask that players joining us are at least of a lower intermediate level. This means that we’d expect you to: * Have the ability to execute and receive all badminton shots with some control; * have an understanding of the rules of badminton and scoring and; * (at least) some rudimentary use of tactics. This is to ensure there are good competitive games for all members. We play in the first floor sports hall and the session will be £10 payable by card on the night (no cash).

Every Monday since 2009 between 15 - 40 men have come into this oasis of calm in the heart of London to meditate, relax and make new friends. * We're a diverse and constantly evolving group with a broad age range and many nationalities. * There's a great balance between long-time regulars and new faces. * No prior meditation experience is necessary as full instructions are provided. * Experienced meditators are also welcome if you are looking for a group to meditate with. * We sit on chairs but if you prefer to sit on the floor there are mats and cushions available. **What You’ll Learn** * **Breathwork** for stress reduction * **Gratitude practices** to enhance your enjoyment of life * **Mindfulness tools** for focus and clarity * **Meditations** that boost emotional intelligence * **Self-care practices** to cultivate kindness in areas where you struggle * **Compassion techniques** for processing difficult emotions * **Resilience-building** to overcome challenges and adapt to change * **Social skills development** through interaction with fellow participants **Meeting Details** * **When:** Every Monday (the event proceeds regardless of RSVPs) * **Where:** 52 Saint Martins Lane, London, WC2N 4EA (near Leicester Square or Charing Cross Tube Station) * **Time:** Doors open at 6:45 PM; meditation starts at 7 PM and concludes at 9 PM. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **About the evening** The evening is a combination of meditation, inner exploration and relaxation done in connection with others. * We start with a grounding practice and some movement to release tension from your body, followed by a guided meditation to calm your mind. * Mid evening there's a 20 minute refreshment break, giving time to chat with others at the class. * The second half explores a different theme each week which leads into a second guided meditation. * The room is heated and warm. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **About the Teacher** The sessions are led by Nick, who has over 30 years of meditation experience and lived for 7 years as a Buddhist monk. Central to this monastic training was the principle that our freedom lies in our ability to choose our response to life rather than react to external situations. **Fees** * **First-Time Attendees:** £10 (for newcomers or those returning after a year) * **Standard Rate:** £16 per session (book online or pay at the door) * **[Silver Membership](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds/memberships):** £55 for 4 sessions within 3 months (average cost: £13.75/session) * **[Gold Membership](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds/memberships):** £95 for 8 sessions within 3 months (average cost: £11.87/session) Additional sessions within the 3-month period are also discounted. Memberships are auto-renewed unless canceled. **Concessions for students, retired on a low pension, low income, Universal Credit, refugees and disability support** Concession rates are available for those needing financial support and are available at the door only. If you think you might qualify, just speak to us when you arrive. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **Member Testimonials:** *"The connection I found at the London Gay, Bi, Trans Men's Mindfulness Meditation Group has been truly transformative. Not only have I learned valuable skills for managing stress, but I’ve also formed meaningful friendships that support my overall well-being. I highly recommend this group to anyone looking for a welcoming and inclusive space."* — **A** *"Meditation has freed me from negative thoughts through increased self-awareness. Nick is an inspiring teacher who has helped me find happiness within myself."* — **Daniele** *"These thoughtful sessions have been invaluable in helping me focus and unwind. Nick has created a friendly space to sort one’s thoughts."* — **Neil** [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door

** Speed Dating for First Timers – Meet Like-Minded Local Singles from Home!** � **Anxious about meeting in person?** We get it! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment. **Perfect for:** - Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating - Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment - Anyone nervous about traditional dating scenes - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience **⚠️ IMPORTANT: Register to Secure Your Spot** **Your RSVP on Meetup does NOT guarantee a spot!** You must click the registration link below for your age group to complete your registration now. **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 18-32** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Sutton&groupurlname=coastal-tide-singles-matrix&ar=18-32) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Sutton&groupurlname=coastal-tide-singles-matrix&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Sutton&groupurlname=coastal-tide-singles-matrix&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Sutton&groupurlname=coastal-tide-singles-matrix&ar=55+) **Event Details** - **Format:** Online via Zoom – comfortable, low-pressure from anywhere - **Location:** From the comfort of your own home – no need to go anywhere! - **Host:** Friendly host who makes first-timers feel welcome and at ease - **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Sutton first-timers – fun and easy **How It Works** 1. Register for Your Age Group - Choose the session that matches your age range above. 2. Complete a Quick Personality Quiz - We'll match you with compatible first-time speed daters. 3. Speed Dating Rounds - Guided, structured conversations with friendly Sutton singles. 4. Connect from Home - Meet someone special from the comfort and safety of your own space. --- ✨ Online speed dating perfect for first-timers – meet local singles from the comfort of home. Join us! ✨

Welcome to Game Night at The London Art Bar - an evening of fun games, great drinks, and awesome vibes. Whether you’re a board game pro, a casual gamer, or just looking for something a bit different to meet new people, there’s something for everyone. We’ll have all your favourites out: from UNO and Cards Against Humanity to Connect Four and Guess Who. You’re also very welcome to bring your own games - the more the merrier! Grab a drink from the fab selection at the London Art Bar, pick a game, and get ready to play. Our team will be on hand if you have any issues. Just come along, grab your drink, and dive into a game!

welcome back to the nect Pints & Pals next community day at Tower Bridge Arms. Join us for a day of indie TTRPGs, discounted food & drinks, and generally just yapping about our mutual love of TTRPGs. This month, we'll be running tables of \- Never Stop Blowing Up \- an action movie flavoured as Victorian steam punk with small familiars in a TTRPG \- Ryuutma \- A game about going on a fantastic journey with friends and celebrating the joys of travel \- Warhammer 40k Wrath and Glory \- dystopian future where you will encounter xenos and the horrors of the warp\, will you survive \- More tables to be announced soon To come along, just hit the attend button, and we'll book you in. If you have a game preference, comment your preferred game. Hopefully we'll see ya'll there!

Maybe you're a bit like me. Even though I write poetry, I don't read that much of other writers. That's one reason why I created an opportunity to take a deeper dive into the work of some prominent Queer poets, writers such as Wilfred Owen, Carol Ann Duffy and Kae Tempest. All drawn from the book *100 Queer Poems.* You are very much invited to join this Queer Poetry Jam. In it, we’ll take it in turns to read a poem from the book. We’ll then spend some time discussing each. So, a fun and engrossing way of experiencing some great poetry, It’s completely free! All part of Morley College’s LGBT+ History Month celebration which I curate. Come and see, too, an exhibition of the college's Queer history, going back to the early years of the last century, This event is open to all. If you’re Queer, that’s great! If you’re not, that’s fine. Naturally, sensitivity and respect is, of course, expected... Please message me on here if you have any questions. Best wishes, Caprice Jackson

\*\* Please RSVP - this helps the venue plan ahead and ensure enough space is reserved for us \*\* Hey everyone! Are you a young professional in your 20s/30s looking to meet other LGBT young professionals? Then we hope to see you at the upcoming Tuesday drinks! Most people come to these drinks by themselves, and half of the people are first-timers, so these evenings are great to meet new people in London. We have tables reserved on the top floor (loft) of The Yard bar in Soho. Go into the Yard, turn left, and head upstairs. Just ask the bar for the tables reserved for the "Meetup". We usually have the tables opposite to the bar. Many have noticed that it can be difficult to meet up with the LGBT community once you leave university or come to a big new city such as London. For this reason we've decided to start organising drinks for young professionals, intended for those who love to have a drink with like-minded people after a busy day of work. Do spread the word, and bring friends, colleagues and family! Frequently Asked Questions: It's my first time and I'm coming alone, should I be nervous? No, you found the right event! Almost everyone joins these drinks alone and there are always a bunch of first timers. Just grab a drink and say hi to those around the reserved tables and you'll be absolutely fine :) I cannot make it at 7.00pm, can I come later? Yes, definitely! There will always be one of the organisers present from 7.00pm onwards, but most people just join whenever they can. There is no official 'start' so to say, and it usually stays busy till around 10pm-11pm. For first timers it can be easier to mingle if you come before 8pm, when it's not that busy yet. How often are the drinks and where are they held? We have drinks every two weeks from 7.00pm at The Yard Bar in Soho. Sometimes we organise other events such as big nights out, pub crawls and picnics. Just keep an eye on the Meetup page. Is there a dress code? Nope, not at all. Just wear whatever you want. Is there a cost? Only for whatever drinks you buy at the bar. That said, if you enjoy the Meetup, we would really welcome any cash donations to help cover our costs for running the events. However, you will never be directly asked for any money from any of our team. Are the Tuesday drinks for networking? No, the drinks are super casual, and not intended to find your new dream job. We have people from all different professional backgrounds, so it's always cool to hear what others are up to. I don't drink alcohol, can I come? Of course! Since it's on a Tuesday many take it easy, so you won't be an outlier. If you have any questions don't hesitate to pop any of our organisers a message. Looking forward to meeting you all! Xx The young LGBTQ+ professionals team Xx

# **Band and caller TBA** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

**In March we will be making protest signs form carboard, paper, thick markers, and more! All supplies are provided, seats are limited! Come As you are, when you can; hope to see you there!**

In April WQC's Creativity Circle will be making beaded bracelets and keychains! All supplies provided, open to all, bring yourself (and a friend or two) for when you are able to make it in the two hour window. Note: Seats are Limited to the provided space at the Westerville Public Library in Meeting Room D.

This Month's Book: The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen. Join us for discussion at the Granville Public Library from 6 to 7pm. Follow us on Instagram: @granvillepridebookclub

Join us for our March Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *The Manor of Dreams* by Christina Li in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.