LGBTQ+ History Month at DPIR

This LGBTQ+ History Month, the Department of Politics and International Relations will be highlighting the achievements of our researchers in contributing to Queer studies. We will be celebrating these achievements on our social media throughout the month, as well as promoting events that are taking place. 

Each year, LGBTQ+ History Month adopts a national theme to highlight different aspects of LGBTQ+ history and identity. The 2026 theme is “Science and Innovation”, which shines a light on LGTBQ+ scientists, inventors, and innovators whose achievements have often goes unrecognised. It also encourages reflection on how science has sometimes been used to marginalise or pathologise LGBTQ+ identities, reminding us of the importance of continuing to build an inclusive and ethical future for all. More details about the month and further resources can be found on the Schools Out website here.

Here are the events taking place across the Social Sciences Division this month:

6 Feb: Spotlight on LGBTQ+ Research - Department of Education 9:30-4:30
A day of talks and panels related to LGBTQIA+ research at the Department of Education, University of Oxford
Registration required. 

6 Feb: Book Discussion: The Emotions of LGBT Rights and Reforms | DPIR 14:30
A conversation with Dr Sen Raj (Manchester) at the Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford
Open to members of the University of Oxford.

9 Feb: Getting Comfortable with Transgender Identities and Pronouns 9 February 2026 12:00-13:30
Open to staff and students in the Social Sciences Division. Registration required.

9 Feb: Logics of Anti-LGBT Violence during Civil War in Colombia: Evidence from Paramilitarism | Department of Sociology 12:45
Hosted by the Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, in-person and online.

12 Feb: The Way Out: Justice in the Queer Search for Refuge - Book Launch | DPIR 17:00
Part of the public seminar series hosted by the Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford.

13 Feb: Queer Data: Methods, approaches, and what is queer social research anyway? | Department of Sociology 10:00-12:00
A workshop at the Department of Sociology, University of Oxford for students and early career researchers using, or interested in using, queer methods for social science research. 

18 Feb: What about Queer? | LGBT+ History Month at the University of Oxford 16:00-18:30
A panel discussion focusing on the evolving meanings of the word “queer”, including its historical usage, political reclamation, and contemporary significance within academic and social contexts.
Open to the public at the Oxford Martin School - registration required. 

Follow us on social media where we will be showcasing our department’s research in visibility, education and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.