A Legacy of Kindness project will showcase the rich history of Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES) – one of the longest-standing UK charities who are celebrating their 25th anniversary. GIRES, which aims to improve the lives of and advocate for transgender and gender diverse people, has been instrumental in several positive changes to trans rights in the UK. 

The project, which launched to coincide with LGBTQ+ History Month 2022, aims to raise awareness of the UK’s transgender community heritage so it is better understood by society. The voices of trans and gender diverse people and their supporters will be captured, aiming to uncover generations of memories. 

The legacy of the project will help to educate and empower British society and the next generation, so that transgender heritage can be celebrated.

Cat Burton (she/her), Chair of GIRES 

A wide range of local and national organisations are involved, including archives and community groups such as Bishopsgate Archive and LGBT+ History Month.

Project activities will include: 

• oral history training and archiving 
• podcasts 
• events 
• trans awareness workshops  
• working with volunteers 

The project, which will finish in summer 2023, will document discoveries on a dedicated website for future generations to learn from.