"We should indeed keep calm in the face of difference, and live our lives in a state of inclusion and wonder at the diversity of humanity." George Takei
This CST activities page aims to celebrate 'World Pride Day' on June 28 and the contribution that LGBT people make to society.
Discussion Points
Ask members to comment on the contribution of LGBTQ men and women to society?
Have they any family members or friends who are a part of the LGBTQ community?
Take a moment to think about types of discrimination and homophobia LGBTQ people have faced in the past?
What can we as Allies do to help stop this and improve the lives of LGBTQ people in this country and overseas?
ROUND 1. Idioms
Complete these well known phrases by way of a group shout out (some of these phrases are outdated and discriminatory, but are sadly still used in common parlance) …
Gay PRIDE
As gay as a GOOSE
Gay ABANDON
Over the RAINBOW
On the Lavender BUS
Drag QUEEN
Cross DRESSER
Tom BOY
Pink POUND
Gay SCENE
In the CLOSET
Coming OUT
Practising HOMOSEXUAL
Swings both WAYS
As camp as TITS
Limp WRISTED
Butch DYKE
Nancy BOY
I could go on. The first list gets more and more obnoxious as you read down it.
Let's move on with some positives …
As proud a PEACOCK
With your head held HIGH
Don’t look BACK
Best foot FORWARD
Pride and JOY
Flying the FLAG
Out and PROUD
FACTOID. About the well known but outdated descriptor 'Friend Of Dorothy'
Discuss. How should we refer to LGBT family members and friends? (I prefer ‘Si’ from people who I like and respect ✊)
ROUND 2. Pride Flag
During Pride Month, it is not uncommon to see the rainbow flag being proudly displayed as a symbol for the LGBTQ rights movement. But how did that flag become a symbol of LGBTQ pride? It goes back to 1978, when the artist Gilbert Baker, an openly gay man and a drag queen, designed the first rainbow flag. Baker later revealed that he was urged by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., to create a symbol of pride for the gay community. Baker decided a flag was the most powerful symbol of pride. “Our job as gay people was to come out, to be visible, to live in the truth, to get out of the lie. A flag really fits that mission, because it’s a way of proclaiming your visibility or saying, ‘This is who I am!’” Baker saw the rainbow as a natural flag from the sky, so he adopted eight colours for the stripes, each colour with its own meaning (hot pink for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, turquoise for art, indigo for harmony, and violet for spirit).
How many of the above landmarks can you identify?
ROUND 3. Some Facts
 | What do the initials LGBTQ stand for? |
 | In which year do you think the last gay couple were hanged in Britain (for being in love - no crimes as such were committed)? |
 | Up until which year was it illegal to be gay (in the UK)? |
 | What was the name given to the riots in 1969 sparked by plain clothes police officers raiding a gay nightclub in New York? |
 | What was the name of the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in San Fransisco & assassinated in 1978? (During his 11 months in office he sponsored a bill banning discrimination in public accommodation, housing and employment on the basis of sexual orientation.) |
 | What was the name of one of the first men to die of AIDS in the UK in 1982, aged 37? An HIV-AIDS charity was later set up in his name. |
 | Which actor narrated the 1987 "Don't die of ignorance" advert? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iroty5zwOVw |
 | Who visited Middlesex Hospital later that year to reassure people that HIV or AIDS could not be transmitted by touch? |
 | What was the number of the Section Margaret Thatcher's government introduced in 1988 to outlaw teaching about LGBT issues in schools (leading to damaging homophobic bullying and its consequences)? |
 | What do LGBT people call it when they reveal their sexuality and gender identity to friends and family? |
 | What date was the first gay kiss broadcast on British TV? |
 | In which year were LGBTQ people allowed to enter into 'Civil Partnerships'? (This brought rights such as being recognised as next of kin and inheritance.) |
 | In which year were full 'Equal Marriage' rights acheived? |
 | Marriage equality laws have only been passed in 36 / 195 countries in the world. What do you think is the main reason for disallowing equality? |
 | According to 'Human Dignity Trust', the death penalty is implemented in Iran, Northern Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and Yemen, and remains a “legal possibility” in Afghanistan, Brunei, Mauritania, Pakistan, Qatar and UAE. |
 | However, tolerance is improving SLOWLY mostly everywhere and just this last week saw which country passing 'Equal Marriage' laws. |
 | This is why 'World Pride Day' continues to be so important. We have fought long and hard for our own rights. Now we need to fight for others to enjoy the same rights and freedoms that we (mostly) enjoy. |
ROUND 4. Famous LGBTQ People
There have always been gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans folk since time began. Think ...
(NB. The evidence base varies and there is a degree of speculation)
 | Clue. Irish Playwright (imprisoned for being gay) "We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars." |
 | Clue. He broke 'The Enigma Code' (chemically castrated and committed suicide) “Sometimes it is the people no one can imagine anything of who do the things no one can imagine.” |
 | Clue. Songwriter “Birds do it, bees do it, even educated fleas do it; let's do it, let's fall in love.” |
 | Clue. Hollywood actor (in the closet) "The horizon rewards those who have the audacity to chase it." |
 | Clue. Celebrated pianist (in the closet) "I don't just want to be remembered, I want to be unforgettable." |
 | Clue. English raconteur "There is no need to do any housework at all. After the first four years the dirt doesn't get any worse." |
 | Clue. Liberal politician (lotted to kill his gay lover) "If I'm driven out of public life in Britain for a gay scandal I shall settle in San Fransisco." |
 | Clue. Wimbledon Champions "Once you start believing in yourself, anything is possible." "Champions keep playing until they get it right." |
 | Clue. TV presenter & actor (for some reason camp comedy had been long accepted on British TV) "Shut that door!" "I'm free!" |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter "My sexuality has never been a problem to me, but I think it has been for other people." |
 | Clue. Comedian & DJ "When England was a kingdom, we had a king. When we were an empire, we had an emperor. Now we're a country, we have Margaret Thatcher." |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter "I write from the heart because that's where the most authentic and powerful songs come from." |
 | Clue. UK LGBT & Human Rights Campaigner |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter “I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring.” |
 | Clue. TV Presenter & Former Drag Artiste "If I wanted your opinion, I'd slap it outta ya." |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter “How wonderful life is while you're in the world.” |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter "I'm as gay as a daffodil, my dear!” |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter "You'll never find peace of mind until you listen to your heart." |
 | Clue. Singer songwriter "I would rather have a cup of tea than sex." |
 | |
 | Clue. Olympic diver & equal rights campaigner "Every time I dive, I feel an adrenaline rush like I did that first time. Until my body fails on me, I will keep going." |
 | Clue. English Actor, Author, Broadcaster & Comedian
“I am a lover of truth, a worshipper of freedom, a celebrant at the altar of language and purity and tolerance.” |
 | Broadcaster, Journalist & Author “I have learned not to take too much notice of those who disapprove of my lifestyle choices, because I know that I was not designed to be part of the crowd." |
 | Clue. Irish Broadcaster, Author & Chat Show Host "I always say I'd rather be miserable by myself than unhappy in a relationship." |
ROUND 5. Possibly The Best Ever LGBTQ Movies
'Cabaret', 1972
Where was this film set? (The name of the bar and the city)
'The Naked Civil Servant', 1975
Who played the part of Quentin Crisp?
Who in 1988 had a hit single about him, called 'An Englishman In New York'?
'Victor Victoria', 1982
Name the two actors pictured here who played King Marchant and Victor/Victoria?
'My Beautiful Laundrette', 1985
Name the actor on the left who went on to have an Oscar winning career?
'Prick Up Your Ears', 1987
Which playwright was this movie about?
Complete the title of one of his works 'Entertaining Mr ......'?
'Philadelphia', 1993
Identify the two actors in this movie poster?
'The Birdcage', 1996
Who is the actor on the right?
What was the original 1978 movie called (the name of the nightclub)?
'The Adventures Of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert', 1994
In the movie, where did they drive their bus?
'Brokeback Mountain', 2005
Name the two actors pictured here?
'Philomena', 2013
What was the name of the journalist, played by Steve Coogan, who published Philomena's story?
'Pride', 2014
Why did a group of gay activists travel to the South Wales valleys?
'Call Me By Your Name', 2017
Why was Oliver staying in Elio's parents house?
'Supernova', 2020
Name the two actors pictured here?
'All Of Us Strangers', 2023
Which follow up movie is Paul Mescal (right) set to star in later this year?
'Tales Of The City', 1993 (honourable mention)
Who is pictured here, starring as Anna Madrigal in Armistead Maupin's TV miniseries?
ROUND 6. Music Round - Best Ever Gay Anthems
You could play this as a 'Name That Tune' round, ask the quiz questions or just enjoy the songs while making artwork. A 'Spotify' playlist is provided below ...
'It's Raining Men', The Weather Girls - Complete this well known phrase, "It's raining ..."?
'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me', Dusty Springfield - Why was she nicknamed "Dusty"?
'You Make Me Fee;', Sylvester - Sylvester was known as "The Queen Of ..." what?
'Your Song', Elton John - What was his original name?
'Mandy', Barry Manilow - T or F. This song was written about his dog and was originally called "Brandy"?
'Flying Without Wings', Westlife - Which member of the band came out as gay in 2005?
'West End Girls', Pet Shop Boys - Name the band members?
'Salltown Boy', Bronksi Beat - Which member of this band became a Church of England priest?
'The Killing Of Georgie', Rod Stewart - What is his hobby?
'Englishman In New York', Sting - What was his original name?
'Karma Chameleon', Culture Club - What is the lead singer's name?
'I'm Coming Out', Diana Ross - What was the name of her backing group?
'A Little Respect', Erasure - The keyboard player previously teamed up with Alison Moyet to form which group?
'Relax', Frankie Goes To Hollywood - Which TV sitcom included a long running dispute about a 'Frankie Says Relax' T-shirt?
'Can't Get You Out Of My Head', Kylie Minogue - Which TV soap did Kylie star in, alongside Jason Donovan?
'Vogue', Madonna - Who did she star as in the 1996 movie 'Evita'?
'Don't Stop Me Now', Queen - What was the name of the 2018 movie about their story?
'Freedom', George Michael - What was the name of his fellow band member in the 80s group 'Wham'?
'Proud', Heather Small - What was the name of her group?
'Y.M.C.A.', The Village People - What do the initials stand for?
'Starman', David Bowie - What was the name of his alterego with the lightning bolt on his face?
'Spotify' playlist link - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6AFgn9ZuVCtHinIVQR12z9?si=5fadf8f216d64ac2
Cardiff Millennium Centre
Sydney Opera House
Post Office Tower, London
The White House, Washington DC
London Eye
Wembley Stadium
Cardiff Castle
Niagara Falls
Empire State Building, New York
Eiffel Tower, Paris
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
One World Trade Centre, New York
House Of Commons & Big Ben, Westminster
LGBTQ = Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transexual & Queer
Last gay couple hanged in Britain - 1835
Private sexual acts between homosexuality illegal in Britain until 1967
Stonewall riots
Harvey Milk
Terence Higgins
Princess Diana
Section 28
Coming out
First gay kiss 1989
First LGBTQ Civil Partnership December 2005
Equal Marriage March 2014
Religion is the main reason for discrimination against LGBTQ people
Thailand passed Equal Marriage laws this month
Oscar Wilde
Alan Turing
Cole Porter
Rock Hudson
Liberace
Quentin Crisp
Jeremy Thorpe
Martina Navratilova & Billy Jean King
Larry Grayson & John Inman
Dusty Springfield
Kenny Everett
Barry Manilow
Peter Tatchell
David Bowie
Paul O'Grady / Lily Savage
Elton John
Freddie Mercury
George Michael
Boy George
Ian McKellen
Tom Daley
Stephen Fry
Clare Balding
Graham Norton
'Cabaret', 1972
Where was this film set? (The name of the bar and the city). KIT KAT CLUB / BERLIN
'The Naked Civil Servant', 1975
Who played the part of Quentin Crisp? JOHN HURT
Who in 1988 had a hit single about him, called 'An Englishman In New York'? STING
'Victor Victoria', 1982
Name the two actors pictured here who played King Marchant and Victor/Victoria? JAMES GARNER & JULIE ANDREWS
'My Beautiful Laundrette', 1985
Name the actor on the left who went on to have an Oscar winning career? DANIEL DAY LEWIS
'Prick Up Your Ears', 1987
Which playwright was this movie about? JOE ORTON
Complete the title of one of his works 'Entertaining Mr ......'? SLOANE
'Philadelphia', 1993
Identify the two actors in this movie poster? TOM HANKS & DENZEL WASHINGTON
'The Birdcage', 1996
Who is the actor on the right? ROBIN WILLIAMS
What was the original 1978 movie called (the name of the nightclub)? LA CAGE AUX FALLES
'The Adventures Of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert', 1994
In the movie, where did they drive their bus? AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK
'Brokeback Mountain', 2005
Name the two actors pictured here? JAKE GYLLENHAAL & HEATH LEDGER
'Philomena', 2013
What was the name of the journalist, played by Steve Coogan, who published Philomena's story? MARTIN SIXSMITH
'Pride', 2014
Why did a group of gay activists travel to the South Wales valleys? TO SUPPORT STRIKING MINERS
'Call Me By Your Name', 2017
Why was Oliver staying in Elio's parents house? HE WAS STUDYING ARCHEOLOGY
'Supernova', 2020
Name the two actors pictured here? COLIN FIRTH & STANLEY TUCCI
'All Of Us Strangers', 2023
Which follow up movie is Paul Mescal (right) set to star in later this year? GLADIATOR
'Tales Of The City', 1993 (honourable mention)
Who is pictured here, starring as Anna Madrigal in Armistead Maupin's TV miniseries? OLYMPIA DUKAKIS
'It's Raining Men', The Weather Girls - Complete this well known phrase, "It's raining ..."? CATS AND DOGS
'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me', Dusty Springfield - Why was she nicknamed "Dusty"? SHE USED TO PLAY FOOTBALL WITH THE BOYS ON HER STREET AND COME HOME DIRTY
'You Make Me Fee;', Sylvester - Sylvester was known as "The Queen Of ..." what? DISCO
'Your Song', Elton John - What was his original name? REGINALD DWIGHT
'Mandy', Barry Manilow - T or F. This song was written about his dog and was originally called "Brandy"? TRUE
'Flying Without Wings', Westlife - Which member of the band came out as gay in 2005? MARK FEEHILY
'West End Girls', Pet Shop Boys - Name the band members? NEIL TENNANT & CHRIS LOWE
'Salltown Boy', Bronksi Beat - Which member of this band became a Church of England priest? REV RICHARD COLES
'The Killing Of Georgie', Rod Stewart - What is his hobby? MODEL RAILWAYS
'Englishman In New York', Sting - What was his original name? GORDON SUMNER
'Karma Chameleon', Culture Club - What is the lead singer's name? GEORGE O'DOWD
'I'm Coming Out', Diana Ross - What was the name of her backing group? THE SUPREMES
'A Little Respect', Erasure - The keyboard player previously teamed up with Alison Moyet to form which group? YAZOO
'Relax', Frankie Goes To Hollywood - Which TV sitcom included a long running dispute about a 'Frankie Says Relax' T-shirt? FRIENDS
'Can't Get You Out Of My Head', Kylie Minogue - Which TV soap did Kylie star in, alongside Jason Donovan? NEIGHBOURS
'Vogue', Madonna - Who did she star as in the 1996 movie 'Evita'? EVA PERON
'Don't Stop Me Now', Queen - What was the name of the 2018 movie about their story? BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
'Freedom', George Michael - What was the name of his fellow band member in the 80s group 'Wham'? ANDREW RIDGELEY
'Proud', Heather Small - What was the name of her group? M PEOPLE
'Y.M.C.A.', The Village People - What do the initials stand for? YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
'Starman', David Bowie - What was the name of his alterego with the lightning bolt on his face? ZIGGY STARDUST