CEO of the Piece Hall, which proudly houses a sculpture of “the first modern lesbian” Anne Lister, has said the venue will be “displaying our Rainbow Flags with Pride”

The CEO of the Piece Hall, which proudly houses a sculpture of “the first modern lesbian” Anne Lister, has said the venue will be “displaying our Rainbow Flags with Pride”.

The Piece Hall, a stunning 18th-century cloth hall in Halifax, which now houses history exhibits, shops, bars and restaurants, has more recently hosted Calderdale Pride and an event with the Gilbert Baker Foundation, which protects and extends the legacy of world-famous political activist, designer and rainbow flag-maker Gilbert Baker.

Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE, DL, CEO of The Piece Hall Trust, said: “February is LGBT+ History Month, and we marked this by hearing from local people about what the rainbow flag means to them. Do check our social media channels to see the mini films. It’s been incredibly moving to hear how this powerful symbol can bring a vital sense of safety in a world that can feel hostile and frightening at times.

“We hosted a brilliant free event from the Gilbert Baker Foundation, the organisation which works to extend the legacy of flag creator Gilbert Baker, promoting its history, impact on the world and educating future generations about the [rainbow] flag.

“I found it fascinating to hear about its conception and was deeply moved by some of the stories from around the world where the flag is banned. A timely reminder of what can happen when hate is allowed to fester unchallenged.

“The Piece Hall is a place for everyone, and we will do all we can to make sure marginalised groups always feel safe and welcome and we will be displaying our rainbow flags with pride…”

On April 3 –  the Anne Lister community will come together for the annual laying of flowers at the sculpture of Anne Lister in the courtyard of the Piece Hall, remembering Lister on what would have been her 234th birthday.