The newly unveiled rainbow plaque at Jackie Forster's former home honors her legacy as a key figure in the LGBTQIA+ rights movement. Forster publicly came out in 1969 and was instrumental in advocating for the rights and visibility of lesbians, co-founding the publication Sappho and actively engaging in various committees supporting women's and LGBTQIA+ issues. The plaque commemorates her significant contributions and is part of a larger initiative to recognize historically significant LGBTQIA+ figures across London, with support from the Mayor's office and public nominations.
Jackie spent the last half of her life working increasingly for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility. From the day she 'came out' at Speakers' Corner in 1969, she fought for the celebration of the word 'lesbian.'
Arts organisation Studio Voltaire described Forster as a 'true trailblazer who paved the way for LGBTQIA+ people through her pioneering work' in the lesbian rights movement.
Importantly, Jackie ensured there was a weekly safe space at Sappho's Notting Hill meetings. Her kindness was legendary,
Sue Sanders, Founder of LGBT+ History Month, praised Forster as a 'whirlwind and a massive champion for lesbian visibility'.
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