Sappho says Celebrate



There's an International Day for almost anything it seems and I'm somewhat surprised and very pleased to say that 8th October is officially Lesbian Day. Once upon a time this would have been a date in fantasy land, but it's nice to remember that - even when it doesn't feel like it sometimes - much progress has been made. This is what it's all about: 

"International Lesbian Day, held on October 8, is a day for lesbians the world over to come together to celebrate lesbian history, diversity and culture. Recognised annually, the day gives an opportunity for women, families and friends to connect, celebrate and also raise awareness about the importance of community. Although the exact origin of the day remains uncertain, it almost certainly began in Australia/New Zealand. Some say the day began in 1980 when a Lesbian Day March was held in New Zealand. The first Australian event was held at the Collingwood Town Hall in Melbourne on October 13, 1990."   Says LGBTIQ+ Health Australia at: https://www.lgbtiqhealth.org.au/

Hoorah! Sappho, adored poet of antiquity on her island of Lesbos must be celebrated in particular - let us gather sweet garlands and sing her praises. Oddly enough, I've just started reading a fascinating book called After Sappho by Selby Wynn Schwartz which celebrates women, feminists and in particular lesbians through the ages in the most poetic, clever, Sapphic-fragmented manner. The novel was shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2022. I haven't researched this in depth as yet but, interestingly, blurbs and reviews tend to leave out the L word in their descriptions. Now why is that I wonder...?

Lesbian Lesbian Lesbian Lesbian - it's still a 'difficult' word for many - so let's celebrate International Lesbian Day with gusto on October 8th - and every day, every day, every day!

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