Libraries
Walsall Archives celebrates LGBTQ+ Voices with new book presentation for Pride Month
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A new book highlighting LGBTQ+ Voices and promoting authenticity was presented to Walsall Archives by local artist and author Fynn O'Connor on Friday 20 June 2025 as part of Pride Month.
Written during the COVID lockdowns, the book aims to empower the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, respected, and celebrated for who they are.
It features a collection of photographic portraits and heartfelt interviews with over 100 people from across the West Midlands and includes stories from people of diverse ages, ethnicities, sexualities and mixed abilities with a connection to the LGBTQ+ community.
Representatives from the LGBTQIA+ network in Walsall were also present at the presentation, sharing lived experiences and meaningful connections.
“ We were truly honoured to receive this book and wholeheartedly encourage everyone, whether part of the LGBTQ+ networks or not, to pick up a copy and have a read. It’s a wonderfully insightful journey that truly inspires people to live their truths and embrace their authentic selves.
By receiving this book, we are fostering a truly diverse community where every voice is not just heard, but cherished, here in Walsall. “
“ It is a big passion project of mine – something I’d wished had existed when I was younger and something I could easily have come across in a local library.
I care deeply about authenticity and enabling us all to be seen, heard, respected, celebrated and allowed to speak our truths, about our lived experiences and our opinions for positive change for the future. It is our lives in our words. “
Following its special presentation to Walsall Archives, Fynn O'Connor will officially launch "LGBTQ+ Voices" where they will be available for book signings at Aston University on Saturday 5 July 2025, as part of The Disability Festival.
The Disability Festival is a free event, running from 12 PM to 6 PM at Aston University, B4 7ET. You can secure your free tickets by visiting this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birmingham-disability-festival-tickets-1312873884129?aff=erelexpmlt
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