Justin Bengry

Director of the Centre for Queer History at the University of London, Author of Locating Queer Histories: Places and Traces in the UK & Managing Editor of the NOTCHES History of Sexuality Blog

Justin Bengry’s Biography:

Justin Bengry is a leading historian of sexuality and a prominent voice within the LGBT+ community, currently serving as Director of the Centre for Queer History at the University of London and Managing Editor of the NOTCHES History of Sexuality Blog. As the convenor of the world’s first MA in Queer History, Justin is shaping how queer histories are researched, taught and understood globally. His expertise in the intersection of capitalism and homosexuality, alongside his work raising awareness of historical injustices such as the UK’s ‘gay pardons’, makes him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for organisations seeking informed, evidence-based perspectives on inclusion and identity.

Justin’s academic career is grounded in rigorous historical training, having completed both a Masters and PhD in History. He began his teaching career as a Teaching Consultant at the University of Lethbridge before progressing to roles at the University of British Columbia, where he taught Twentieth-Century World History. He further developed his academic profile in the United States as a Teaching Assistant in European History and an Instructor in European Gender History at the University of California. He is currently a Lecturer in History at Goldsmiths, University of London, where he continues to educate and mentor students in modern and queer history.

Throughout his career, Justin has secured a number of prestigious research fellowships, including positions at Birkbeck, McGill University and the University of Saskatchewan. He has also led impactful public history work, notably as Lead Project Researcher for Pride of Place at Historic England, which explored the UK’s LGBT heritage. His research and commentary have been featured in major publications such as The New York Times and The Guardian, reinforcing his authority as a historian. He has also contributed to significant initiatives such as the Queer Beyond London project.

In addition to his academic work, Justin is an accomplished author and thought leader. His book, Locating Queer Histories: Places and Traces in the UK, alongside numerous scholarly articles, demonstrates his depth of expertise across gender, sexuality, consumer culture and social history. As a speaker, he delivers insightful, accessible talks that connect historical context with contemporary workplace inclusion, making complex ideas relevant and actionable for modern audiences.

Why Hire Justin Bengry?

Justin Bengry is hired as a speaker for his ability to translate complex historical research into clear, engaging insights that resonate with contemporary audiences. A regular media commentator on LGBT+ history, he has contributed to leading international publications and public discourse. Justin delivers keynote talks at corporate events, academic institutions and public forums, exploring themes such as identity, inclusion and the historical roots of inequality. His evidence-led approach equips organisations with a deeper understanding of diversity, enabling more informed and meaningful inclusion strategies.

Justin Bengry’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Justin Bengry’s remarkable career in inclusivity and diversity:

• 2026 – Continues to lead the Centre for Queer History, advancing global education in queer studies
• 2022 – Published Locating Queer Histories: Places and Traces in the UK
• 2020 – Lead Project Researcher for Pride of Place at Historic England, exploring LGBT heritage
• 2019 – Contributed to the Queer Beyond London research project
• 2018 – Appointed Managing Editor of NOTCHES: (Re)marks on the History of Sexuality blog
• 2017 – Lecturer in History at Goldsmiths, University of London, specialising in queer history
• 2016 – Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Birkbeck, University of London
• 2015 – SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellow in History at McGill University
• 2014 – Postdoctoral Fellow in History at the University of Saskatchewan
• 2010 – Instructor in European Gender History at the University of California