Queer Histories in the Archives – Student Perspectives at UofG
Join us for an interactive LGBT History Month event exploring how queer histories are preserved, uncovered, and interpreted within the University of Glasgow Archives & Special Collections. This session combines hands-on activities, archival insights, and reflections on researching LGBT histories. No prior experience with archival research is required.
LGBTQ+ History Month 2026
Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026
Venue: Room 223, Mazumdar Shaw Advanced Research Centre
Category: Academic events, Student events, Staff workshops and seminars, Community events
Speaker: Dr Sam Rutherford, Robyn Stewart, Alex Kabaj
This is an in-person event for UofG Staff and Students Only. A valid UofG Staff or Student email address is required to book your ticket.
Join us for an interactive LGBT History Month event exploring how queer histories are preserved, uncovered, and interpreted within the University of Glasgow Archives & Special Collections. This session combines hands-on activities, archival insights, and reflections on researching LGBT histories. No prior experience with archival research is required.
This event will take place in-person as well as Online via Zoom. Attendees will be send meeting details prior to the event.
- Date: Tuesday, 24 February 2026
- Time: 1:30–3:00pm
- Location: Room 223, ARC (more information available below)
What the Event Will Include
· Scottish LGBT History Timeline Activity
Alex Kabaj (he/they) will start off with a collaborative activity tracing key moments in Scottish LGBT history.
· Researching LGBT History at UofG Archives & Special Collections
Robyn Stewart (they/them) Senior Archives Assistant will introduce materials held in the collections that illuminate LGBT experiences, activism, and student life across the university’s history.
· Approaches to Queer Research
Dr Sam Rutherford (he/him) will discuss working with both clearly identifiable LGBT records - such as student society materials - and more coded or indirect sources, including early20thcentury student drag performances. This session highlights different ways of reading and interpreting the archive through a queer lens.
· Queering the Glasgow Map Activity
Alex Kabaj (he/they) will carry out a participatory mapping exercise inviting attendees to re‑imagine Glasgow through queer historical and contemporary perspectives.
This event is open to all students and staff with an interest in LGBT history, archives, or community storytelling. No prior experience with archival research is required.
This event is co-sponsored by GLINTS: Glasgow Lab for Intersex, non-binary and trans studies, Library Services and the Equality and Diversity Unit.