Before and after Wolfenden: LGBTQ+ history and Reading

n 1957, the Report of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution chaired by Lord Wolfenden, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, recommended the decriminalization of consensual homosexual behaviour between men over the age of 21. Although the recommendations were not implemented for a further decade, this was a partial but significant step on path towards equal rights and freedom for LGBT+ people.

To mark the Report’s 60th anniversary, academic researchers from the University of Reading and Support U will discuss defining moments in LGBT+ history and its connection with Reading. We welcome the following speakers:

• Dr Katherine Harloe, Associate Professor in the Department of Classics
• Lorna McArdle, Co-founder and COO of LGBT Charity, Support U
• Professor Peter Stoneley, Head of Department for English Literature
• Chaired by: Dr Rhi Smith, Director for the Heritage and Creativity Institute

As part of the afternoon programme, the seminar will be followed by a wine reception. Spaces are limited for the seminar, and booking is essential. To book a place, please visit the events page or call 0118 378 6718.