We spoke to The Scene on what it’s like being Lincoln’s only LGBTQ+ venue

They provide an inclusive and safe space for everyone who needs it


LGBTQ+ History Month is a yearly month-long celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history. As well as the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements.

It takes place in February in the UK, and October in the US and Canada. The theme this year is Body, Mind, Spirit. The very first LGBT History Month happened in the USA in 1994, soon followed by the UK in 2005. It started out of the ‘Schools OUT’ project initiative that began with teachers and activists, Sue Sanders and Paul Patrick. Schools OUT is an organisation that seeks to make schools safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students.

The Scene reopened its doors back in September but sadly had to close again as a result of the November lockdown and national tier restrictions.

The Lincoln Tab spoke to The Scene, Lincoln’s premier LGBT+ venue about what this month means to them, and how they have been coping throughout the pandemic.

Pre-coronavirus days

They have been “proudly serving the community since 2012. Hosting a variety of events and club nights, whilst receiving numerous awards and nominations, we pride ourselves on being an open, inclusive venue, with friendly and approachable staff.”

The Scene said: “LGBTQ+ History month is the yearly occurrence where we can celebrate the historic and ongoing progress for the diversity, inclusivity, and safety of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Although there is certainly still a long way to go, it’s a time where we as Lincoln’s only LGBTQ+ venue, and our fantastic community, can thank the people who have helped raise awareness and fought for our rights.”

The Scene is “extremely proud” to be the only LGBTQ+ venue in Lincoln, and they pride themselves “on providing an inclusive and safe space for everyone who needs it, whether they are part of the LGBTQ+ community or not!

Pre-coronavirus days

They have also been organising Lincoln Pride since 2013, which was unable to go ahead in 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, but they are “incredibly excited” for their next event.

Lockdown has been “extremely tough financially and mentally” on those at The Scene. “As a business, we are doing everything we can to keep costs low during our period of being closed, as our number one priorities at the moment are keeping our staff team on furlough and of course staying afloat so we can continue to serve Lincoln’s community.

“Unfortunately, the pandemic has forced the decision on some of our security and entertainment staff to find work elsewhere, but we are excited to welcome them back with open arms.”

During lockdown, The Scene has been doing all they can to continue to support Lincoln’s community. They have been hosting their weekly “The Scene LIVE” shows on Facebook and have received “amazing feedback so far.”

via @thescenelincoln on Instagram

They said: “Not only does it keep us occupied but it also allows us to help those who feel alone or under the weather.”

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