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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251112T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251112T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20251027T103840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T113439Z
UID:15478-1762975800-1762979400@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:CANCELLED: Scotch Verdict with Lillian Faderman
DESCRIPTION:UPDATE: Unfortunately\, we have had to cancel this event due to unforeseen circumstances. \n\n\n\nJoin Lavender Menace for a conversation with Lillian Faderman about the writing of her acclaimed book Scotch Verdict. First published in 1983\, the book details the experience of uncovering the story of a scandal surrounding a 19th-century boarding school in Edinburgh’s New Town. \n\n\n\nThis online event will be held on Zoom. We’ll email attendees a Zoom link before the event. Just book a free ticket to attend. \n\n\n\nAbout Scotch Verdict\n\n\n\nAward-winning author Lillian Faderman recreates the events surrounding this notorious case\, which became the basis for Lillian Hellman’s famous play\, The Children’s Hour. Reconstructing the libel suit filed by Pirie and Woods—which resulted in a scotch verdict\, or a verdict of inconclusive/not proven—Faderman builds a compelling narrative from court transcripts\, judges’ notes\, witnesses’ contradictory testimony\, and the prejudices of the men presiding over the case. Her fascinating portrait documents the social\, economic\, and sexual pressures shaping the lives of nineteenth-century women and the issues of class and gender contributing to their marginalisation. \n\n\n\nIn 1810\, a Scottish student named Jane Cumming accused her schoolmistresses\, Jane Pirie and Marianne Woods\, of having an affair in the presence of their students. Dame Helen Cumming Gordon\, the wealthy and powerful grandmother of the accusing student\, advised her friends to remove their daughters from the Drumsheugh boarding school. Within days\, the institution was deserted and the two women were deprived of their livelihoods. \n\n\n\nAbout the speaker\n\n\n\n\nLillian Faderman is an internationally known scholar of lesbian and LGBT history and literature. She is professor emerita of English at California State University\, Fresno. Her award-winning titles include: Odd Girls and Twilight Lovers\, Surpassing the Love of Men\, Naked in the Promised Land\, Power Politics\, and Lipstick Lesbians. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nThe event will be chaired by Indigo Dunphy-Smith \n\n\n\n\nIndigo Dunphy-Smith (she/her) is a researcher and writer based in Edinburgh. She specialises in research and public programmes that create space for marginalised stories in traditional spaces. She is the author of How to: Queer Your Historic House\, a practical toolkit for uncovering queer stories in museum collections\, and co-chairs the National Trust for Scotland’s LGBTQ network and supports organisations to queer their heritage spaces. \n\n\n\n\nImage credits \n\n\n\nLilian Faderman photo by Phyllis Irwin; map reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland Map Images website.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/scotch-verdict
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Scotch-Verdict-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251103T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251103T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20251023T120615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T120625Z
UID:15467-1762192800-1762200000@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:3\,000 Lesbians Go to York
DESCRIPTION:Join Lavender Menace at the Filmhouse for a screening of this brilliant new film. Followed by a Q&A with author Jane Traies and director Rachel Dax\, and a booksigning.3000 Lesbians Go To York tells the extraordinary true story of how a lesbian bookseller (who also happened to be trans) created the largest gathering of LGBTQ+ women in the UK\, and how from 1998 to 2008\, the quietly conservative city of York became the unlikely centre of all things lesbian! \n\n\n\nFor one thrilling decade\, thousands of women flocked to the York Lesbian Arts Festival (YLAF) each autumn\, to meet their favourite authors\, buy books\, hear top female artists live on stage and dance the night away at the ‘disco of a thousand lesbians.’ \n\n\n\nFeaturing interviews with world famous writers Val McDermid\, Sarah Waters and Jackie Kay\, and the legendary singer Horse\, 3000 Lesbians Go To York is a real celebration of the historical significance of this iconic festival! \n\n\n\n\nBuy a ticket\n\n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event will take place at Filmhouse on Lothian Road. You can see accessibility information on the Filmhouse website. Contact Filmhouse directly if you have more questions.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/3000-lesbians-go-to-york
LOCATION:Filmhouse\, 88 Lothian Road\, Edinburgh\, EH3 9BZ
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3000-lesbians.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20251023T092415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T092427Z
UID:15460-1762009200-1762012800@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Gay Scotland Now Collage Workshop at Edinburgh Zine Fair
DESCRIPTION:Join Lavender Menace for a free and fun collage workshop remixing text and images from Gay Scotland. Gay Scotland was a staple of the Scottish queer scene when it was published in the 1980s-2000s. Explore LGBT events\, adverts\, articles\, and classifieds from the past and remix them to reflect what Scotland means to queer communities now. \n\n\n\nNo need to bring anything – we have materials and photocopies of vintage queer magazines. \n\n\n\nLavender Menace is a community archive with roots in Scotland’s first LGBT+ bookshop. We have a mission to bring together the queer community in Edinburgh and beyond\, celebrate LGBT+ authors and their works\, and collect and preserve LGBT+ books. lavendermenace.org.uk \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located on Floor 3\, ScotART\, St Margaret’s House (that’s three floors above the Lavender Menace archive). There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/gay-scotland-now-collage-workshop
LOCATION:Edinburgh Zine Fair\, Floor 3\, 151 London Road\, Edinburgh\, EH7 6AE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Gay-Scotland-cropped.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251004T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251004T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250919T111620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T112013Z
UID:15356-1759586400-1759593600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Asexuality in the Archive
DESCRIPTION:Book a ticket\n\n\n\n\nThis interactive workshop introduces how asexuality was treated as a medical issue in the Victorian Age and its impact on contemporary media representation. It will begin by examining how nineteenth-century doctors constructed a set of symptoms that supposedly diagnosed individuals as asexual. Together\, we’ll look at how this conceptualisation is mirrored – or challenged – in contemporary popular culture representations of asexuality. Participants are encouraged to bring in their own examples to discuss\, alongside those provided by the workshop leader. \n\n\n\nWhat to expect \n\n\n\nThe workshop will begin with a short introductory talk on the history of asexual medicalisation\, followed by work in small groups and general discussion. Participants are encouraged to offer their own examples of asexual representation: these should be introduced with a short description of the media and the character they want to discuss. \n\n\n\nAbout the Facilitator \n\n\n\nClaudia Sterbini is a PhD student at the University of Edinburgh. Her project explores theconstruction of pathological asexuality at the turn of the twentieth century. She is interested in queer history\, the medical humanities\, Victorian literature\, and generally all that is queer and ace. \n\n\n\nBookingBooking in advance is essential as places are limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/asexuality-in-the-archive
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Asexuality-in-the-archive-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251002T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251002T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250918T111100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T111104Z
UID:15344-1759431600-1759437000@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Sapphic Spaces: In conversation with June Thomas
DESCRIPTION:Join Wuthering Dykes Book Club and Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive for an evening with the lesbian legend June Thomas\, author of A Place of Our Own. June will be in conversation with Sigrid Nielsen\, co-founder of both Scotland’s first LGBT+ bookshop and Lavender Menace\, and Sophie Haynes\, who runs Wuthering Dykes.  \n\n\n\nThe event is free. Just click here to book a ticket through Eventbrite: \n\n\n\n\nBook ticket\n\n\n\n\nAbout the speakers: \n\n\n\nJune Thomas is a journalist\, podcaster\, and the author of A Place of Our Own: Six Spaces That Shaped Queer Women’s Culture. She spent 25 years as a writer\, editor\, and podcast host at Slate.com\, and her freelance work has appeared in Bloomberg Businessweek\, Marie Clarie\, the New York Times’ T magazine\, the Washington Post\, and the Advocate. She is now working on a biography of Rita Mae Brown. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto: Rachel Hein. [A photograph of June smiling outside a bookshop with stylish round glasses and a purple jumper] \n\n\n\nSigrid Nielsen is a graduate of St John’s College in Santa Fe\, New Mexico. In Edinburgh in 1979 she joined Bob Orr in Open Gaze\, the bookstall he ran at Edinburgh Gay Centre\, and worked in other bookselling and publishing groups. She and Bob opened Lavender Menace\, Scotland’s first Lesbian and Gay Community Bookshop\, as a partnership in 1982. Sigrid managed author readings\, mail order lists\, and bookshop events. She left as a partner in 1987 and later co-edited In Other Words: Writing as a Feminist (Hutchinson Education\, 1987) and published articles and short stories. In 2019\, she and Bob revived Lavender Menace as an LGBT+ books archive and heritage organisation. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto: Liam Baker. [A headshot of Sigrid smiling at the camera wearing glasses and a rainbow knitted jumper.] \n\n\n\nSophie Haynes runs Wuthering Dykes Bookclub and holds an MLitt in Gothic Literature. She’s passionate about building queer community and where to find the best whiskey soda in Leith. Catch her browsing bookshops\, marching at protests or making an appearance at the best lesbian events in the city. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto: Sophie Haynes. [A headshot of Sophie who is looking straight at the camera and wears a leather jacket.] \n\n\n\nVenue & Access \n\n\n\nThe event will be held at Epworth Hall\, Nicolson Square Venues\, 25 Nicolson Square\, EH8 9BX. This is a dry event and no alcohol is allowed on the premises.The venue has step-free access and an internal lift. There is parking next door at 27\, and an accessible gender neutral toilet on the ground floor: https://www.euansguide.com/venues/nicolson-square-edinburgh-edinburgh-14614/information \n\n\n\nTo see what the event room looks like visit: https://www.nsvenues.com/the-epworth-hallFor further information about the venue contact info@nsvenues.com and for questions about the event contact themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/sapphic-spaces
LOCATION:Epworth Hall\, 25 Nicolson Square\, Edinburgh\, EH8 9BX\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Sapphic-Spaces-event-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250821T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250821T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250724T164452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T102318Z
UID:15249-1755799200-1755806400@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Window(s) of Tolerance: Tools for Ideal Collaborations in an Un-Ideal World
DESCRIPTION:Doors open at 6pm\, workshop 6.30-8pmA workshop from Feminist Culture House\, supported by Edinburgh Art Festival \n\n\n\n\nBook here\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLet’s pollinate the cultural field with intersectional feminist working practices! This 1.5hr workshop uses verbal\, edible\, and textual prompts to guide a conversation about identifying and distributing different skills and currencies within collaborative creative practices.  \n\n\n\nDuring the workshop\, Katie will share excerpts from Feminist Culture House’s new online publication Windows of Tolerance: Tools for Ideal Collaborations in an Unideal (Art) World\, as well as a foraged pine pollen and valerian root infusion from Finland—this might prompt lucid dreaming later that night.  \n\n\n\nWelcome if you’re interested in chatting about the practicalities of curatorial and collective practices\, hanging out\, and dreaming of how to create kind working conditions that feel nourishing for everyone involved \n\n\n\nWhat to expect \n\n\n\n\nan informal group gathering of maximum 15 people \n\n\n\nan introduction round\n\n\n\nfriendly facilitation grounded in Safer Space principles and these ethical guidelines\n\n\n\nto hear someone with an Australian accent read short textual excerpts \n\n\n\nmoments to reflect upon and share about your own experiences with collaborative practices\, and how they were compensated\, if you wish \n\n\n\na take-home pamphlet with space for notetaking\, and a link to the Windows of Tolerance publication \n\n\n\ntime to reflect and write\n\n\n\na break for a drink and snack: alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available\n\n\n\ntime for informal socialising\n\n\n\n\nAbout the FacilitatorKatie Lenanton (she/her) is a queer intersectional feminist curator\, artistic researcher\, writer\, and editor who works collectively through mediums like exhibition-making\, social practice\, wildcrafting\, conceptual cocktails\, publishing\, scent\, and sustenance\, amongst others. An important question in her work is “who is in the room\, and under what conditions?” \n\n\n\nIn 2019\, she co-founded Feminist Culture House\, a Helsinki-based curatorial and editorial platform that produces exhibitions\, publications\, and tools for more equitable collaborations within the art field. \n\n\n\nBookingWe only have capacity for a limited number of people in the archive\, so please book in advance. If you are unable to attend\, please let us know so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location and accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/windows-of-tolerance
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/3-pink-pine-katie-lenanton-banner.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250819T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250819T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250801T104622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T094417Z
UID:15277-1755626400-1755631800@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Archiving Queer Futures: Eman Abdelhadi in conversation with Nat Raha (online)
DESCRIPTION:Book now\n\n\n\n\nJoin Lavender Menace for an online discussion between two activist scholars on imagining and archiving queer futures.  \n\n\n\nDr Eman Abdelhadi is an academic\, activist and writer who thinks at the intersection of gender\, sexuality\, religion and politics. She is an assistant professor and sociologist at the University of Chicago\, where she researches American Muslim communities. She is co-author of Everything for Everyone: An Oral History of the New York Commune\, 2052 – 2072 (with M. E. O’Brien\, 2022). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr Nat Raha is a poet and activist-scholar. Her current research focuses on transfeminism\, practices and collectives of care and social reproduction\, racial capitalism and decolonisation\, across poetry\, art\, politics and hi(r)story. Nat is the co-author of Trans Femme Futures: Abolitionist Ethics for Transfeminist Worlds (with Mijke van der Drift\, 2024)\, and co-edited ‘Imagining Queer Europe then and now’\, Third Text special issue (2021). She is the author of four books of poetry\, including apparitions (nines) (2024) and of sirens\, body & faultlines (2018). Her critical writing has appeared in Social Text\, South Atlantic Quarterly\, TSQ and more.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/archiving-queer-futures
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/FUTURE-DROP-OUTS-2160-x-1080-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250805T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250805T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250724T175350Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T110937Z
UID:15254-1754416800-1754424000@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Queer Community Programming Group with Filmhouse
DESCRIPTION:Book here\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in queer films?Would you like to be involved in deciding which queer films are shown atFilmhouse?Come along to our new community programming group\, a collaborationbetween Filmhouse\, Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive\, and Programmedwith Pride.Filmhouse is an independent cinema in the heart of Edinburgh\, celebrating themagic of cinema in all its forms. Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive collectand conserve LGBTQ+ books\, preserve queer history\, and provide a space forthe community. Originally established in 2018\, Programmed With Pride is avolunteer-run group of young film lovers based in Edinburgh who arepassionate about LGBTQ+ stories in cinema and bringing them to thecommunity through hosting and programming events.We will meet quarterly to discuss all things queer cinema and decide whichfilms we would like to show in the recently reopened Filmhouse on LothianRoad.BookingPlease complete the registration form to attend:https://forms.office.com/e/DSZCVVS10nWe welcome LGBTQ+ people over the age of 18 to join us on Tuesday 5thAugust\, between 6pm to 8pm at Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive\,Edinburgh Palette\, 151 London Road.The group is free to attend.Booking in advance is essential as places are limited\, and if you are unable toattend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place tosomeone else.If you have any access needs it would be helpful for us to know about\, or anyquestions\, please get in touch at learning@filmhouse.org.ukVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in EdinburghPalette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\,along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/filmhouse
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250727T141500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250727T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250708T162539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T162544Z
UID:15226-1753625700-1753632000@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Social Sunday: Spike\, Saturn & Friends of Storm
DESCRIPTION:On the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month\, the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive is open 2pm–4pm for our informal Social Sundays.  \n\n\n\nOn Sunday 27th July\, we are running a special Social Sunday to remember our friend Lesley Storm. Lesley recently passed away and she is very much missed by the Edinburgh poetry community. In 2023\, Lesley read her poetry at a Lavender Menace event “Spike\, Saturn and Storm”. Spike and Saturn will return to share her work and remember her.  \n\n\n\nPlease join us to read her work and your own\, and learn more about her extraordinary life. \n\n\n\nNo need to book\, just drop in. \n\n\n\nVenue & Accessibility\n\n\n\nSocial Sunday takes place at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questions\n\n\n\nPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/social-sunday-spike-saturn-friends-of-storm
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Eventbrite-tempate-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250531T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250531T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250415T190406Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T184914Z
UID:3111-1748700000-1748707200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mapping Your Library with OurStory Scotland
DESCRIPTION:Doors open 1.30pm. Workshop 2-4pm. \n\n\n\nJoin Lavender Menace for a creative oral history workshop with Dom Millar-Graham\, chair of OurStory Scotland. In Mapping Your Library\, participants are invited to narrate their lives through the books that have meant something to them. Tell your queer story through books. Where do you find yourself on the library or bookshop shelves?   \n\n\n\nRefreshments provided and no preparation needed. \n\n\n\n\nBook tickets\n\n\n\n\nBookingBooking in advance is essential as places are limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/mapping-your-library-with-ourstory-scotland
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Mapping-Your-Library.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250430T141638Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T141642Z
UID:3123-1748181600-1748188800@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Social Sunday: Trans & non-binary open mic
DESCRIPTION:Sunday 25 May\, 2pm-4pm \n\n\n\nA relaxed Social Sunday open mic with tea\, coffee\, and snacks. \n\n\n\nSocial Sundays are usually an informal\, drop in session every 2nd and 4th Sunday. We decided to run a special open mic Social Sunday this month to celebrate trans and non-binary writing. \n\n\n\nWe invite you to bring along your favourite poem\, extract\, or piece by a trans or non-binary writer\, or share your own work. It will be a relaxed\, friendly space\, with no pressure to “perform”. \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nBookingWe only have capacity for a limited number of people in the archive\, so please book in advance. If you are unable to attend\, please let us know so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location and accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/trans-open-mic
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Social-Sunday-open-mic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250417T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250417T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250313T163636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T163641Z
UID:3085-1744914600-1744918200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Archive-inspired poetry: writing workshop with Éadaoín Lynch
DESCRIPTION:Doors at 6pm\, Workshop 6.30-7.30pm \n\n\n\nJoin Typewronger’s writer-in-residence Éadaoín Lynch (they/them) for a practice-based poetry workshop in (and inspired by) the Lavender Menace archive!  \n\n\n\nYou’ll have the chance to interact with unique archvial materials\, plus built-in time and prompts to write with. No experience necessary\, just bring a notepad or a laptop\, whichever you prefer. There’s no expectation to share work aloud (unless you want to). \n\n\n\nSupported by Scottish Book Trust’s Live Literature programme. \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nAbout Éadaoín Lynch \n\n\n\nÉadaoín Lynch is an Irish poet & researcher living and working in Edinburgh. Their debut pamphlet\, Fierce Scrow\, launched with Nine Pens Press in 2022. From December 2024-May 2025\, they are a writer-in-residence with Typewronger Books\, creating original poems in response to materials from the Lavender Menace Archive. \n\n\n\nIn 2024-5\, they are also project mentor on the ACE-funded Eff-able Anthology\, co-edited by JP Seabright and George Parker. Eff-able is a project in two parts – an anthology of poetry from the best contemporary poets identifying as queer and disabled\, and a touring showcase of this work. \n\n\n\nFind out more about Éadaoín on their website: eadaoinlynch.com  \n\n\n\nBookingBooking in advance is essential as places are limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/eadaoin-lynch-workshop
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Eadaoin-banner.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250220T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250220T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250124T174608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250124T183949Z
UID:2996-1740076200-1740081600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Eve by Jo Clifford
DESCRIPTION:At St Margaret’s House – on Floor 3 in Gallery 2 \n\n\n\n6pm doors open\, event 6.30-8pm \n\n\n\nJoin us for a reading from Eve by Jo Clifford followed by a Q&A with the writer and performer. \n\n\n\n\nBook tickets\n\n\n\n\nEve tells the story of a child raised as a boy\, when she knew all along that was wrong. That child grew up to be one of the 10 Outstanding Women in Scotland in 2017. With trans rights again under threat\, legendary playwright\, performer\, father and grandmother Jo Clifford tells a story both gentle and passionate\, intimate and political\, to remind us that the journey towards our real selves is one we all need to make. \n\n\n\nJo is a writer\, performer\, poet and teacher based in Edinburgh. She is the author of about 80 plays\, many of which have been translated into various languages and performed all over the world. Her transition from John to Jo has enabled her to become an actor and performer. Performances include “God’s New Frock”\, “Sex\, Chips and the Holy Ghost”\, “The Gospel According to Jesus Queen of Heaven”\, “High Heels Aren’t Compulsory”. \n\n\n\nLocation and accessibility\n\n\n\nThe exhibition will be in Gallery 2\, on the third floor of Edinburgh Palette at St Margaret’s House. You can find directions to Edinburgh Palette on our location and access page. \n\n\n\nGallery 2 is on the third floor of the building\, which can be accessed via the staircase or the lifts. \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh\n\n\n\nThis event is part of our Desire Paths programme\, which includes an exhibition and accompanying events: \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh is an exhibition which explores our city’s histories through a queer lens\, drawing on books from the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive collection and Edinburgh’s rich LGBT+ history. 19th-25th February 2025\, 11am-4pm \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Opening Night – Join us for the opening night of the exhibition! There will be drinks and nibbles\, and the chance to hear more about the stories featured in the exhibition. Tuesday 18th February\, 6pm-8pm \n\n\n\nLyra Celtica: Harry Josephine Giles on Wilfion – An evening celebrating the work and legacy of genderweird Celtic Revival writer Fiona Macleod / William Sharp with Harry Josephine Giles and special guests. Wednesday 19th February\, 6pm-7pm \n\n\n\nThis project is co-curated by a team of volunteers from Lavender Menace and funded by Edinburgh 900. \n\n\n\nFind out more on the Lavender Menace website: lavendermenace.org.uk/events
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/eve-by-jo-clifford
LOCATION:Gallery 2\, Edinburgh Palette\, St Margaret's House\, 151 London Road\, Edinburgh\, EH7 6AE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Eve-by-Jo-Clifford.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250219T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250219T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250124T175025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250124T175332Z
UID:2999-1739988000-1739991600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Lyra Celtica: Harry Josephine Giles on Wilfion
DESCRIPTION:Doors 5:30pm\, event 6pm-7pm \n\n\n\nJoin us for an evening of readings exploring the work and legacy of genderweird Celtic Revival writer Fiona Macleod / William Sharp with Harry Josephine Giles and special guests. \n\n\n\n\nBook tickets\n\n\n\n\nFiona Macleod was a well-known Scottish author in the Celtic Twilight\, a correspondent to W. B. Yeats\, and possibly the originator and probably the populariser of the name Fiona. After the death of William Sharp\, a less popular writer in the same circles\, it was revealed that Fiona was also the 12-year “second self”\, “feminine self” or “dream self” of William Sharp. The combination of William and Fiona were known as Wilfion by their wife. \n\n\n\nWilfion is featured in our Desire Paths exhbition which explores Edinburgh’s queer history. Harry Josephine Giles will join us in the gallery space to discuss Wilfion’s life and writing. \n\n\n\nAbout Harry Josephine Giles\n\n\n\nHarry Josephine Giles is a writer and performer from Orkney\, living in Leith. Her latest book is the poetry collection Them! (Picador 2024). Her verse novel Deep Wheel Orcadia (Picador 2021) won the 2022 Arthur C. Clarke Award for science fiction book of the year. Her poetry collections The Games (Out-Spoken Press\, 2018) and Tonguit (Freight Books 2015) were between them shortlisted for the Forward Prize for Best First Collection\, the Saltire Prize and the Edwin Morgan Poetry Award. Her stage show of her poetry sequence Drone toured internationally in 2019\, and the performance of Deep Wheel Orcadia will tour in 2025. She has a PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Stirling. www.harryjosephine.com \n\n\n\nLocation and accessibility\n\n\n\nThe exhibition will be in Gallery 2\, on the third floor of Edinburgh Palette at St Margaret’s House. You can find directions to Edinburgh Palette on our location and access page. \n\n\n\nGallery 2 is on the third floor of the building\, which can be accessed via the staircase or the lifts. \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh\n\n\n\nThis event is part of our Desire Paths programme\, which includes an exhibition and accompanying events: \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh is an exhibition which explores our city’s histories through a queer lens\, drawing on books from the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive collection and Edinburgh’s rich LGBT+ history. 19th-25th February 2025\, 11am-4pm \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Opening Night – Join us for the opening night of the exhibition! There will be drinks and nibbles\, and the chance to hear more about the stories featured in the exhibition. Tuesday 18th February\, 6pm-8pm \n\n\n\nEve by Jo Clifford – A special reading from Eve by Jo Clifford followed by a Q&A with the writer and performer. Eve tells tells a story that is both gentle and passionate\, intimate and political\, about the journey towards our real selves. Thursday 20th February\, 6.30-8pm \n\n\n\nThis project is co-curated by a team of volunteers from Lavender Menace and funded by Edinburgh 900. \n\n\n\nFind out more on the Lavender Menace website: lavendermenace.org.uk/events
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/wilfion
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Wilfion-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250219T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250225T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250121T165202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250222T111218Z
UID:2974-1739962800-1740499200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Desire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh
DESCRIPTION:Desire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh is an exhibition which explores our city’s histories through a queer lens. Drawing on books from our collection and Edinburgh’s rich LGBT+ history\, this exhibition maps Edinburgh through queer literature and places. The exhibition encourages visitors to reexamine the Edinburgh spaces they encounter in their everyday lives and to add their own experiences to Lavender Menace’s archive. \n\n\n\n\nDates: 19th-25th February 2025 \n\n\n\nTimes: 11am-4pm (12noon-4pm on Sunday)\n\n\n\nLocation: Gallery 2 (third floor)\, St Margaret’s House\, Edinburgh Palette\, 151 London Road\, Edinburgh\, EH7 6AE\n\n\n\nCost: Free\, drop in (no need to book)\n\n\n\n\nLavender Menace is a community archive with roots in Scotland’s first LGBT+ bookshop. We have a mission to bring together the queer community in Edinburgh and beyond\, celebrate LGBT+ authors and their works\, and collect and preserve LGBT+ books.  \n\n\n\nThis project is co-curated by a team of volunteers from Lavender Menace and funded by Edinburgh 900.  \n\n\n\nLocation and accessibility\n\n\n\nThe Desire Paths exhibition will be in Gallery 2\, on the third floor of Edinburgh Palette at St Margaret’s House. You can find directions to Edinburgh Palette on our location and access page. \n\n\n\nGallery 2 is on the third floor of the building\, which can be accessed via the staircase or the lifts. \n\n\n\nOther Desire Paths events\n\n\n\nWe will have programme of Desire Paths events running alongside the exhibition. Book your free tickets below! \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Opening Night – Join us for the opening night of the exhibition! There will be drinks and nibbles\, and the chance to hear more about the stories featured in the exhibition. Tuesday 18th February\, 6pm-8pm \n\n\n\nLyra Celtica: Harry Josephine Giles on Wilfion – An evening celebrating the work and legacy of genderweird Celtic Revival writer Fiona Macleod / William Sharp with Harry Josephine Giles and special guests. Wednesday 19th February\, 6pm-7pm \n\n\n\nEve by Jo Clifford – A special reading from Eve by Jo Clifford followed by a Q&A with the writer and performer. Eve tells tells a story that is both gentle and passionate\, intimate and political\, about the journey towards our real selves. Thursday 20th February\, 6.30-8pm
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/desire-paths
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/EDI900Exhibition-1920x960-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250218T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250218T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250124T172619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250209T182858Z
UID:2981-1739901600-1739908800@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Desire Paths: Opening night
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an informal party to celebrate the opening of our new co-curated exhibition! There’ll be drinks and nibbles\, and the chance to hear more about the stories featured in the exhibition. \n\n\n\n\nBook tickets\n\n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh is an exhibition which explores our city’s histories through a queer lens. Drawing on books from our collection and Edinburgh’s rich LGBT+ history\, this exhibition maps Edinburgh through queer literature and places. The exhibition encourages visitors to reexamine the Edinburgh spaces they encounter in their everyday lives and to add their own experiences to Lavender Menace’s archive. \n\n\n\nLocation and accessibility\n\n\n\nThe exhibition will be in Gallery 2\, on the third floor of Edinburgh Palette at St Margaret’s House. You can find directions to Edinburgh Palette on our location and access page. \n\n\n\nGallery 2 is on the third floor of the building\, which can be accessed via the staircase or the lifts. \n\n\n\nOther Desire Paths events\n\n\n\nThis event is part of our Desire Paths programme\, which includes the exhibition and accompanying events: \n\n\n\nDesire Paths: Reading Queer Edinburgh is an exhibition which explores our city’s histories through a queer lens\, drawing on books from the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive collection and Edinburgh’s rich LGBT+ history. 19th-25th February 2025\, 11am-4pm \n\n\n\nLyra Celtica: Harry Josephine Giles on Wilfion – Join us for an evening celebrating the work and legacy of genderweird Celtic Revival writer Fiona Macleod / William Sharp with Harry Josephine Giles and special guests. Wednesday 19th February\, 6pm-7pm \n\n\n\nEve by Jo Clifford – Join us for a reading from Eve by Jo Clifford followed by a Q&A with the writer and performer. Eve tells tells a story that is both gentle and passionate\, intimate and political\, to remind us that the journey towards our real selves is one we all need to make. Thursday 20th February\, 6.30-8pm \n\n\n\nThis project is co-curated by a team of volunteers from Lavender Menace and funded by Edinburgh 900. \n\n\n\nFind out more on the Lavender Menace website: lavendermenace.org.uk/events
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/desire-paths-exhibition-opening
LOCATION:Gallery 2\, Edinburgh Palette\, St Margaret's House\, 151 London Road\, Edinburgh\, EH7 6AE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Desire-Paths-opening.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250205T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250205T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20250121T152143Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T152312Z
UID:2966-1738778400-1738782000@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Coming Out': National Library of Scotland in conversation with Lavender Menace
DESCRIPTION:Join the National Library of Scotland for a screening of the 1983 documentary ‘Coming Out’ followed by an exploration of the Lavender Menace archive. \n\n\n\nJoin the Lavender Menace bookshop co-founder Sigrid Nielsen and other members of the community group\, for a showing of this documentary. It includes footage of the Lavender Menace bookshop which opened in 1982. \n\n\n\nThe film screening will be followed by an opportunity to see a live- streamed display of selected manuscripts from Bob Orr’s archive about the setting up of the Lavender Menace bookshop. The archive is held at the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh. These manuscripts will prompt a discussion with Sigrid and the other members of the group about the establishment of the bookshop in the 1980s and the work that continues today. \n\n\n\nThe event is organised by the National Library of Scotland. Book your tickets through NLS: \n\n\n\n\nBook tickets\n\n\n\n\nLocation and accessiblity\n\n\n\nThis event will be at Kelvin Hall\, 1445 Argyle Street\, Glasgow\, G3 8AW. \n\n\n\nAccess information for Kelvin Hall is available on the National Library of Scotland website. \n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about this event\, contact the NLS team: nlsevents@nls.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/coming-out-national-library-of-scotland-in-conversation-with-lavender-menace
LOCATION:Kelvin Hall\, 1445 Argyle Street\, Glasgow\, G3 8AW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/coming-out-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="National Library of Scotland":MAILTO:nlsevents@nls.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250111T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250111T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20241126T175338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241126T175633Z
UID:2905-1736604000-1736611200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Comics for Connection with Candice Purwin
DESCRIPTION:Lavender Menace and illustrator Candice Purwin welcome you to Comics for Connection\, an afternoon workshop in our archive where you will learn how to make your own art and zines on the topic of connection. Whatever your connection to queerness\, to spaces and places\, to self and others here and afar\, the workshop aims to show you how to create a meaningful bridge through art and storytelling.  \n\n\n\nNo experience of art\, drawing\, collage or zine-making is required to attend – just your enthusiasm! We will have basic art supplies but you are welcome to bring along your favourites. Candice Purwin is an illustrator\, graphic novelist and animator living and working in Edinburgh. \n\n\n\nHer work is feminist\, political\, poetic and fierce. Her ability to communicate powerful and emotionally complex ideas through images has led to her co-creating work with a wide range of artists\, academic bodies and collectives. While she is able to adapt her traditional hand drawn craft across many disciplines\, panelled storytelling remains her first and best language. \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nBookingBooking in advance is essential as places are limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/candice-purwin-comics
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/LMQBA_Template_Web-2160-x-1080-px-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241207T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241207T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20241119T162012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241119T162016Z
UID:2901-1733583600-1733590800@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Queer Gothic writing workshop with Heather Parry
DESCRIPTION:Join Lavender Menace in our friendly queer book archive for a hands-on writing workshop with Heather Parry exploring the craft of the queer gothic story. Materials and refreshments provided. \n\n\n\nHeather Parry is a Glasgow-based writer of fiction and nonfiction. Her debut novel\, Orpheus Builds a Girl\, was shortlisted for the Saltire Fiction Book of the Year award and longlisted for the Polari First Book Prize. She is the editorial director of Extra Teeth magazine and co-created the Illustrated Freelancer’s Guide with artist Maria Stoian. She writes the substack General Observations on Eggs and her next novel\, Carrion Crow\, will be released in Feb 2025 with Doubleday. \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nBookingBooking in advance is essential as places are limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/queer-gothic-writing-workshop-with-heather-parry
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Queer-Gothic-Heather-Parry.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20241022T164807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T164815Z
UID:2816-1732215600-1732219200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Transfixions with Shola von Reinhold and Skye Arundhati Thomas
DESCRIPTION:Doors: 6.30pmEvent: 7-8pm \n\n\n\nJoin Lavender Menace for an evening with writer and editor Skye Arundhati Thomas in conversation with artist and writer Shola von Reinhold. Von Reinhold’s celebrated novel\, Lote\, weaves narratives of queer archival disruption\, academic alienation\, and obscured histories through the narrative of Mathilda’s fixation with archival figures. We ask her about the historical figures that haunt her work and the potential for queer histories to transfix artists and researchers. \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nBooking informationBooking in advance is essential. Places are free and limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email our us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSkye Arundhati Thomas is a writer and editor from India. Their first book Remember the Details\, on viral images\, courtrooms\, and a brief history of a protest movement\, is out with Floating Opera Press\, and their second\, Pleasure Gardens (co-written with Izabella Scott) on constitutional law\, military occupation and communications blackouts is out now with Mack Books\, as is their third\, on the painter Lalitha Lajmi\, with Sternberg Press. From 2021-24 they were co-editor of The White Review. They are currently international curator-in-residence at the Fondation Pernod Ricard in Paris. Photograph of Skye by Emma Riviera. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is funded by Book Week Scotland\, Scottish Book Trust’s annual celebration of books and reading that takes place across the country.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/transfixions
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Shola-2.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241118T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241118T213000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20241110T191623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241112T220425Z
UID:2871-1731954600-1731965400@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Emma's Big World Aids Day Quiz For Waverley Care
DESCRIPTION:Organised by Speak Out Studio in partnership with Lavender Menace \n\n\n\nTime: 7pm – 9:30pm (doors at 6:30pm)Location: Leith Depot\, 138-142 Leith Walk\, Edinburgh\, EH6 5DT \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for an evening of knowledge testing and fundraising for World AIDS Day 2024\, with 100% of the proceeds going to Waverley Care\, Scotland’s leading HIV and Hepatitis C charity. \n\n\n\nDoors open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. The event will end around 9:30pm but feel free to stick around after to chat and relax as the space is open till midnight. Maximum team number of 6\, but PLEASE NOTE every individual team member must book their own ticket! \n\n\n\nThis quiz is ran by Speak Out Studio\, in partnership with Lavender Menace Queer Book Archive\, whose mission is to collect and conserve LGBTQ+ books\, and preserve queer history. \n\n\n\nThe quiz is free to enter but please consider donating to play\, we’re taking donations on the night with both card and cash option availble\, there will also be resources and information availble from Waverley Care and Lavender Menace. \n\n\n\nAccessible unisex toilet in the venue\, moveable ramp available for the main entrance and venue door. Please get in touch with any access requirements or questions that we can help with – speakoutstudiocic@gmail.com \n\n\n\nMore information on Waverley Care: https://www.waverleycare.org \n\n\n\nMore information on Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive: https://lavendermenace.org.uk \n\n\n\nContact for Speak Out Studio: speakoutstudiocic@gmail.com
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/waverley-care-quiz
LOCATION:Leith Depot\, 138-142 Leith Walk\, Edinburgh\, EH6 5DT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/waverley-care.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241025T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241025T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240927T164725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240927T164939Z
UID:2778-1729882800-1729888200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Meet the Poets: In/Visible with JJ Fadaka
DESCRIPTION:Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive and LGBT Health and Wellbeing come together once again to celebrate the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2024 alongside Black History Month for another showcase of poetry and spoken word spotlighting LGBTQ+ black and writers of colour. This year hosted by queer poet and writer JJ Fadaka\, you can expect feature performances alongside emerging writers as we create a warm and affirming space for creativity\, compassion and connection. \n\n\n\nGuest poets performing and in conversation include: \n\n\n\nHosted by Queer writer\, Lover\, Radical – JJ Fadaka and featuring emerging writers and a guest poet – details to be confirmed. \n\n\n\nThis event is for anyone wishing to celebrate the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival alongside Black History Month with our special guests\, with a special welcome to queer\, trans\, intersex black\, people of colour (QTIBPOC). \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nThis event is hosted by LGBT Health and Wellbeing in partnership with Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive. \n\n\n\nWith thanks to SMHAF and Mental Health Foundation for your support to include us in the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2024 programme! \n\n\n\nWe will ask about BSL requirements at booking. \n\n\n\nWho we welcome \n\n\n\nWe welcome the entire diversity of the lesbian\, gay\, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community living in or visiting Edinburgh\, including Non-binary\, Queer\, Intersex\, Asexual people and all identities under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella. This also includes those who are questioning or exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity. \n\n\n\nRegistration\n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nAdvanced registration is required to access the event. The capacity is around 40 people seated. \n\n\n\nAs this is a seated event\, bookings are for 1 person. Even if you and a friend or partner share an email address you must make one booking per person. \n\n\n\nIf something changes and you can no longer attend the event\, please let us know as soon as you can so your booking becomes available for someone else. \n\n\n\nWe are happy to complete the booking on your behalf\, please feel welcome to email Jules at jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or leave a message on our admin phone 0131 564 3970 and someone will call you back. \n\n\n\nLast minute tickets\n\n\n\nPlease note that we will release a small number of tickets a few days before the event\, to make it easier for neurodivergent people and those who struggle to book in advance\, to access the event. Please visit this eventbrite link from 9am on Monday 21st October for additional tickets on a first come first serve basis. \n\n\n\nCOVID-19\n\n\n\nWe know that not everyone feels totally comfortable at in-person events yet and that COVID-19 precautions still feel relevant to many in our community. At this event\, we will have: \n\n\n\n\nmasks available and support anyone wishing to use them\n\n\n\nhand sanitiser available at all times\n\n\n\nwindows open for ventilation\n\n\n\n\nThe venue\n\n\n\nWe will meet at LGBT Health and Wellbeing’s Edinburgh base at Duncan Place Community Hub. \n\n\n\nMore information about venue access after registration. \n\n\n\nAccess\n\n\n\nThe venue at Duncan Place and our event features the following: \n\n\n\n♿️ Wheelchair access 🅿️ Disabled parking spaces x 2 \n\n\n\n⚧ Accessible and gender neutral toilets 🤫 Quiet space \n\n\n\nIf there is anything more you need to talk to us in advance to help you access the event\, please contact Jules at jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or leave a message for Jules on the admin phone at 0131 564 3970.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/meet-the-poets-in-visible
LOCATION:LGBT Health and Wellbeing\, 4 Duncan Place\, Edinburgh\, EH6 8HW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Meet-the-Poets-2024.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241004T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241004T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240913T155234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240915T155726Z
UID:2737-1728063000-1728066600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Once Upon A Gay in Edinburgh (Portobello Book Festival)
DESCRIPTION:Portobello Book Festival will take place at the Portobello Library 4th-6th October. We are delighted that Bob and Sigrid will be featured at this event: \n\n\n\nA chance to find out about Edinburgh’s Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive with founders Sigrid Nielsen and Bob Orr. The archive aims to collect\, conserve and celebrate queer books published before 2000 which are in danger of being lost. Sigrid and Bob are in conversation with local author Cameron Wyllie (Is There a Pigeon in My Room? My Life in Schools) whose forthcoming book is about growing up gay in 70s Edinburgh. \n\n\n\nBooking information \n\n\n\nThe event is free. Tickets are available from Portobello Library. \n\n\n\n\nFind out more
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/once-upon-a-gay
LOCATION:Portobello Library\, 14 Rosefield Ave\, Portobello\, Edinburgh\, EH15 1AU
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-13-165005.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240917T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240917T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240813T180040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240915T154112Z
UID:2643-1726594200-1726601400@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Plotting on the Body with Jj Fadaka
DESCRIPTION:Free workshop for for queer\, trans\, intersex and non binary people of colour \n\n\n\nDoors 5pm\, event 5:30pm-7:30pm \n\n\n\n\nBook a ticket\n\n\n\n\nPlotting on the Body is a reflective writing and collage workshop for QTPOC feeling the weight of expectations on the way they present gender and queerness in their bodies.  \n\n\n\nWe will collage with maps to discuss the way beauty\, work and pain manifest in our bodies\, how we want to present vs the expectations of a heteronormative racialised society. Join the group to create in a supportive\, brave environment for people who self-identify as queer\, non-binary\, trans people categorised by colour. \n\n\n\nWe will discuss what is means to ‘queer’ our understanding of the body and take example from shifting non-conforming bodies elsewhere in the natural world.  \n\n\n\nYou can expect:  \n\n\n\n\nWriting prompts \n\n\n\nCollaging with maps \n\n\n\nGroup discussion and listening \n\n\n\nFood and hot drinks\n\n\n\n\nIn group exercises\, we will imagine and share the resources we need to take us to a non-conforming world with collaboration\, solidarity and mutual understanding.  \n\n\n\nAbout Jj Fadaka\n\n\n\nJj Fadaka is a writer\, facilitator and radical based in Edinburgh. Their writing explores the possibility abolition\, feminism\, and love give us to create change. In workshops\, Jj draws on afro-futuristic radical traditions to create space for exploring desire in a world without barriers. Jj organises events for political education and finding belonging with music\, visual arts and performance. \n\n\n\nBooking information\n\n\n\nBooking in advance is essential. Places are free and limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & Accessibility\n\n\n\nThe event is located at the archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questions\n\n\n\nPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/plotting-on-the-body
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/JJ-Fadaka-Plotting-on-the-Body.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240822T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240822T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240730T165119Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240802T163543Z
UID:2581-1724346000-1724353200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Archive After Hours: Lavender Menace 42nd birthday party
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Archive After Hours for the 42nd anniversary of the original Lavender Menace bookshop\, which first opened its doors in August 1982.  \n\n\n\n42 years on\, the archive will be open late for a wee party to celebrate. Expect cake\, snacks\, fizz\, and a good blether!  \n\n\n\nThis is a drop in event\, so you don’t need to register. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe sessions are located at the archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/42nd-anniversary
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/42nd-Birthday-web.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240819T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240825T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240802T173048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240806T144812Z
UID:2593-1724061600-1724605200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Through A Lavender Lens
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Mon 19 Aug — Sun 25 Aug \n\n\n\nOpening hours: 10am — 5pm \n\n\n\nLocation: French Institute of Scotland West Parliament Square\, EH1 1RN \n\n\n\nThis exhibition is presented by Edinburgh Art Festival as part of their Civic Programme.  \n\n\n\nThrough A Lavender Lens: Celebrating the Legacy of Scotland’s First LGBTQ+ Book Shop \n\n\n\nForty-two years have passed since Sigrid Nielsen and Bob Orr opened Scotland’s first lesbian and gay book shop\, Lavender Menace. This book shop was more than a shop; it was a sanctuary where queer individuals could find literature that reflected their lives and struggles\, yet like many independent LGBTQ+ book shops\, Lavender Menace by then known as West & Wilde closed in 1997. 20 years later\, it reopened as The Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive\, preserving the rich history of queer literature and activism in Scotland. \n\n\n\nThe rebirth of Lavender Menace highlights the ongoing need to protect the legacy of queer history and celebrate it. While Sigrid and Bob are still involved with Lavender Menace\, the archive’s heart and soul continues through its many staff and volunteers – and those to come. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Lavender Menace and the individuals who have made its revival possible. \n\n\n\nJoin us for a preview of the exhibition (and free drinks) with Lavender Menace at the French Institute on 19 August\, 6pm—9pm. Register for your free ticket on the EAF website. \n\n\n\nEdinburgh Zine Library will also host a pop-up on 21 August\, where guests can read their curated pick of zines on all things queer and literary. \n\n\n\nThis exhibition has been curated by Ellis Clay as part of EAF24’s Civic Programme. Lavender Menace photographed by Jules Lacave-Fontourcy and Zoe Robertson\, with a film by Mitchell Morton. With many thanks to Lavender Menace staff and volunteers for their support and involvement within this project. \n\n\n\nAccessibility\n\n\n\nThe exhibition space has level access with four available seats to view the publication\, photography\, and film. If you have any questions about access or specific access requests\, please contact EAF.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/through-a-lavender-lens
LOCATION:French Institute of Scotland\, West Parliament Square\, Edinburgh\, EH1 1RN
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Lavender-Lens.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240818T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240818T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240813T154424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240813T173347Z
UID:2631-1723989600-1723993200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Social Sunday at the Botanics
DESCRIPTION:Queer liberation and the natural world are two themes that aren’t often thought of as related or connected. We’re going to read and respond to some works that explore these themes. You are welcome to come along and listen or to bring an extract of your own to read out.A short list of questions to spark ideas: \n\n\n\n\nIs liberation natural/unnatural?\n\n\n\nIs feminism dependent on technological advancement?\n\n\n\nHow does climate activism intersect with gender activism?\n\n\n\nWhere is nature around you? Where are you touching nature in your life?\n\n\n\n\nConcepts considered in preliminary research include but are not limited to \n\n\n\n\nForaging\n\n\n\nPlant blindness\n\n\n\nCommodity fetishism\n\n\n\nIsolationism/connectedness\n\n\n\n\nThis event is activated in collaboration with Mas Arte Mas Accion\, a Colombian artists collective. Other activations include talks on transecologies\, reading circles\, chocolate tastings\, and a conversation with the Colombian ambassador to the United Kingdom. The final outcome of multiple Around the Tree installations (including this one) will travel to the UN’s COP16 Biodiversity Conference in Colombia (Cali\, 2024) and COP30 Climate Change Conference in Brazil\, 2025. \n\n\n\nBookingNo need to book – entry is free and the event is open to the public. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThis event is held at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh\, Edinburgh\, EH3 5NZ. The Royal Botanic Garden website has directions and access information. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/social-sunday-at-the-botanics
LOCATION:The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh\, EH3 5NZ
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/LW-2048-x-652-px-1.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240817T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240817T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240618T144745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240809T132936Z
UID:2467-1723892400-1723899600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:The A Team: discussion group
DESCRIPTION:Following our first meeting of The A Team with Eris Young on 30th June\, the Lavender Menace volunteers will lead an informal discussion group for three initial meetings on Saturday 13th July\, 27th July and 17th August. \n\n\n\nJoin our small group for tea\, books\, and discussion to share ace and aro media in a welcoming space. All ace\, aro and questioning people are very welcome! \n\n\n\n\nBook your ticket\n\n\n\n\nHealth and safety information \n\n\n\nIn order to make the event safe for our immunocompromised attendees\, we ask that all attendees take a lateral flow test on the day of the workshop and wear a FFP2 or FFP3 mask unless disability prevents this. Lateral flow tests and masks can be provided upon request. The workshop space will be cleaned before the workshop begins\, hand sanitiser will be provided\, windows will be opened and there will be an air purifier on for the duration of the workshop. \n\n\n\nBooking informationBooking in advance is essential. Places are free and limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe sessions are located at the archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/the-a-team-group-3
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/A-Team-web-updated.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240808T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240808T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240716T152753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T164653Z
UID:2529-1723136400-1723147200@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Queer Traces: open evening
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an open evening to celebrate our exhibition Queer Traces by curator and volunteer archivist Alex Lednicky!  \n\n\n\nNote: This event was originally planned for 1st August but has been moved to 8th August due to circumstances outside of our control. \n\n\n\n\nBook a free ticket\n\n\n\n\nThe exhibition traces queer history through the books and ephemera at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive. The collection includes selected books and collaged objects which revitalise the archive\, offering new ways to engage with the texts. \n\n\n\nFind out more about Queer Traces \n\n\n\nBooking informationBooking in advance is essential. Places are free and limited so\, if you are unable to attend\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe sessions are located at the archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/queer-traces-opening-night
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Website-banner-Queer-Traces-Opening-8th.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240801T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240929T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T092119
CREATED:20240716T150443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240915T154059Z
UID:2525-1722510000-1727625600@lavendermenace.org.uk
SUMMARY:Queer Traces exhibition
DESCRIPTION:Queer Traces: Tracing queer history through books at Lavender Menace by Alex Lednicky \n\n\n\nWhen: August & September 2024 on Tuesdays\, Thursdays\, alternate Sundays – see below for opening times \n\n\n\nNote: The exhibition has been extended to Sunday 29 September due to popular demand! \n\n\n\nCurator and volunteer archivist Alex Lednicky has been tracing queer history through the books and ephemera at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive.  \n\n\n\nDuring August\, Alex presents Queer Traces\, an exhibition which aims to revitalize the collection\, find new ways to engage with the texts\, and trace the individual stories of the books on the archive shelves.  \n\n\n\nQueer Traces contains three elements: \n\n\n\n\nArchiving absurdity: Curated selections of books based on absurd categories. The Lavender Menace volunteer’s twist on the traditional “staff picks” format.\n\n\n\nEphemeral connections: Collaged objects and notes found in donated books\, providing insight into the books’ own travels. \n\n\n\nSearching for Wilde Lavender: A collection tracing the history of the archive. This is the story of Lavender Menace and West & Wilde. \n\n\n\n\nOpening times\n\n\n\nThe exhibition will be open during the regular archive opening hours: \n\n\n\n\nTuesdays and Thursdays (11am-4pm)\n\n\n\n\n\nSocial Sundays (8th and 22nd September\, 2pm-4pm). \n\n\n\n\nIt is free to attend and you don’t need to book. \n\n\n\nVenue & AccessibilityThe exhibition is located at the archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car\, along with access information\, on our location & accessibility page. \n\n\n\nAny other questionsPlease email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk.
URL:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/event/queer-traces-exhibition
LOCATION:Midlothian
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lavendermenace.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Queer-Traces-web.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR