Founding
Founded in 1979 in the aftermath of the Gay News blasphemy trial, GALHA is the only autonomous national organisation worldwide for gay and lesbian Humanists. It has members in many parts of the UK and in other countries.
Affiliations
GALHA is affiliated to the International Humanist and Ethical Union, which has consultative status at the United Nations, UNESCO, UNICEF, the Council of Europe, the European Union and the European Parliament. GALHA is also affiliated to Amnesty International, whose UK section has its own active Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Network. In addition, GALHA is an associate member of the US-based Council for Secular Humanism.
Aims
GALHA provides a fellowship and voice for the many non-religious in the lesbian and gay community. It aims to promote an awareness and understanding of the Humanist outlook in that community, as well as bringing gay and lesbian rights to the attention of its kindred Humanist organisations.
Campaigning
GALHA plays a part in the campaign to combat prejudice and discrimination against lesbians and gay men and to achieve their complete legal equality with heterosexuals. It also takes up issues of concern to Humanists. It lobbies MPs, the media and others. It makes submissions to government committees and responds to government consultative documents concerning lesbian/gay and Humanist rights. It takes part in demonstrations and rallies concerning these rights.
Links
GALHA is an integral part of the British Humanist movement and has close links with other organisations in it. These include the British Humanist Association and the National Secular Society, which have each consistently backed homosexual law reform and supported making the age of sexual consent for gay men equal to that for heterosexuals. GALHA is represented on the Humanist Forum (a liaison committee) and it co-sponsors Humanist functions.
Events and Stalls
GALHA holds regular meetings with speakers and discussions, socials, and residential weekend gatherings for members and friends. It sets up stalls at lesbian/gay and Humanist events.
Ceremonies
GALHA’s associated charity, the Pink Triangle Trust, arranges Humanist (non-religious) affirmation ceremonies for couples who want to make a declaration of their love and commitment. It has a network of officiants experienced in conducting these ceremonies.
Membership
GALHA membership is open to all lesbians, gay men and bisexuals who broadly subscribe to the Humanist outlook and are concerned about lesbian and gay rights. It is also open to any heterosexual Humanists wishing to offer their moral and financial support.
Membership Services
GALHA members are kept in close touch via a free bi-monthly newsletter. Members can take advantage of an electronic mailing list and a mail order service offering a selection of books on Humanism and lesbian/gay subjects.