What is International Lesbian Day?
International Lesbian Day is a day to recognise, support and celebrate lesbian communities around the world. It is about inclusivity, visibility and standing together to promote acceptance for all – no matter your gender Identity or sexual orientation.
History of Lesbian Day
The origins of International Lesbian Day are rooted in activism, visibility and community. The earliest known “Lesbian Day” took place during International Women’s Day celebrations in New Zealand. On March 8th, 1980, around 40 women marched together to highlight lesbian voices and experiences.
In 1990, the first dedicated International Lesbian Day event was organised in Melbourne, Australia. It was a landmark moment, bringing together lesbians and allies to create a safe space for solidarity and empowerment. Over the next few years, activists and organisers across Australia and New Zealand worked to grow the celebration, helping it gain international recognition.
By the Mid-1990s, the date was standardised to October 8th, chosen to align with other women’s rights and feminist events, emphasising the interconnectedness of gender and sexuality struggles.
Where does the word “Lesbian” come from?
The term Lesbian comes from the Greek island of Lesbos, which is famously home to the ancient Greek poet Sappho. She wrote deeply emotional poetry about love, desire and her relationships with other women.
If Not, Winter: Fragments of Sappho (Translated by Anne Carson)
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/160692/if-not-winter-by-sappho-translated-by-anne-carson/9780676976083/excerpt
Sappho's Ode to Aphrodite in ancient Greek | Performing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3onZPLXt_kw
Because of her influence, women who loved women were often referred to as Sapphic or Lesbian – terms that directly referenced her name and island of birth.
Over time, the term Lesbian became widely recognised and its use evolved through history. By the late 19th Century, as LGBTQIA+ communities began gaining visibility, the term became a proud identifier for women loving women.
Despite attempts made to erase her work from history, the legacy of Sappho continues today, not only shaping lesbian identity and symbolising resilience and representation across cultures.
How it’s celebrated?
International Lesbian Day is marked worldwide with marches, rallies, community gatherings and online campaigns that amplify lesbian voices and stories.
Here at Bucks Students’ Union, we are dedicated to promoting, celebrating and championing people of all sexualities, identities and backgrounds. We’re proud to stand alongside our LGBTQIA+ community, creating a safe, welcoming space where everyone feels supported, valued and empowered to be their authentic self.
We’re lucky to have an amazing LGBTQIA+ Society here at Bucks, offering insights on queer topics in their biweekly sessions, as well as events and community for all. There is an LGBTQIA+ Mixer on 10th October 12-1pm, which is a fantastic chance to meet new people, connect and celebrate inclusivity together.
If you’d like to learn more, get support, or find a safe space, here are some trusted organisations: