An L Word convention doubled as a fundraising event for gay and
lesbian charity Stonewall, this month - raising six hundred
pounds.
The idea was presented - and organised - by a fan of the show,
Kirsty McCran, who wanted to support the charity's long-running
anti-bullying campaign.
According to research conducted by Stonewall, the overwhelming
majority of students suffer - or hear - homophobic abuse throughout
UK classrooms.
Speaking to DIVA, McCran said: "Basically, when we found out that
Starfury's L9 convention was being held the weekend in advance of
National Anti-Bullying Week, we discussed with Sean Harry (the
organiser) the idea of fundraising for Stonewall during the event -
it fitted in well with the 'L' theme, and we felt it was good
timing with National Anti Bullying week.
"Sean was more than happy with the idea and fully encouraged us
and offered anything we needed to be succesful in this fundraising,
including putting information in the event schedule so all
attendees knew about it."
As a result, Stonewall provided official merchandise for the
event, which attendees could buy. Some of the products were later
modelled by Heather Peace, Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey.
L Word's Elizabeth Keener and Alicia Willis were also present to
support the fundraiser, as were Stamie Karakasidis and Tracy
Ryerson from The Real L Word.
"The money is going to such a great organisation," said
McCran.
"We just want to show our thanks for everyone's generosity and let
them all know how amazing they are."
The ninth L Word convention took place in Birmingham's Metropole
Hotel from 11-13 November.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STARFURY EVENTS.
