LGBTQ+ & Allies Networking
Building on the success of our previous LGBTQ+ and Allies Networking events, we are delighted to invite you to join us on 20th Feb, 2025 for an evening dedicated to building community and sparking conversation.
As part of LGBT+ History Month 2025, this year’s event will embrace the theme of Activism and Social Change. The evening will feature a networking session alongside a thought-provoking educational segment that explores the history and treatment of LGBTQ+ people in the armed forces and the recently published recommendations from the LGBT Veterans Independent Review, presented by Carl Austin-Behan.
Complimentary welcome drinks will be served from 5.00-5.30 followed by canapes / finger food.
The event is kindly hosted by the Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel which is located on Water Street (postcode: M3 4JQ).
We can’t wait to see you there!
About the Speakers:
Dr Carl Austin-Behan OBE DL is a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and former LGBT Advisor to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Currently Greater Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Community Ambassador. This role includes visiting schools, youth groups and workplaces to promote diversity, equality, inclusion and respect as well as working on projects with Community Action, Public Sector Liaison and LGBTQ+ Networks across GM.
Carl was one of the last people to be discharged from the RAF in 1997 due to his sexuality although having an exemplary service record. He joined Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in 1998 and left 1999, then went on to win Mr Gay UK 2001.
Having served on Manchester City Council representing Burnage from 2011 – 2018, Carl was the first openly gay Lord Mayor of Manchester 2016 – 2017. Also owns his own Cleaning Company VA Clean – working with Property Management Companies specialising in the communal areas of apartment blocks.
Carl has devoted himself to LGBTQ+ advocacy. Ambassador for The Proud Trust, George House Trust, Broughton House; Patron of Contact Theatre, Manchester Proud chorus; Chair of Pro-Manchester EDI Network, City of Trees Trust. He was also a founder member for Fighting with Pride (LGBT veterans charity run by veterans. The first and only lived-experience charity addressing the health and wellbeing of LGBT+ veterans.) he passionately promotes diversity, equality and inclusion within our communities. In November 2019 Carl was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and was awarded an OBE in the 2020 Queens New Year’s Honours List for services to Charity and the LGBTQ+ Community.
Carl is married to Simon and they have a 5 year old daughter Willow, who they have duel parenting arrangements with a Lesbian couple.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
