Pride Season 2023: A Time to Celebrate and Fight
Pride season is a time to celebrate our progress but remember our roots as a protest that began even before the famous 1969 Stonewall Riots. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the vitriol directed at the LGBTQ+ community, especially transgender people. This has led to an increased risk of violence and discrimination.
Despite the challenges, it is important to remember that we have made great progress in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK. In 2013, same-sex marriage was legalized in England and Wales, and in 2014, it was legalized in Scotland and Northern Ireland. There are also laws in place to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
However, there is still much work to be done. In recent years, we have seen a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric from politicians and religious leaders. We have also seen an increase in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people. Over 10,000 hate crimes were reported to the police in the UK in 2022, and a third of these were motivated by hostility towards sexual orientation or gender identity.
As we celebrate Pride season this year, let us remember the history of the LGBTQ+ movement and our progress. Let us also remember the challenges that remain and recommit ourselves to the fight for equality.
Gathering and Raising Our Voices
One of the most important things we can do to fight for LGBTQ+ rights is to gather and raise our voices collectively. When we come together, we are stronger. We can use our voices to speak out against discrimination and violence. We can also use our voices to demand change from our elected officials.
Acknowledging the History of the LGBTQ+ Movement
The LGBTQ+ movement has a long and rich history in the UK. It is a history of struggle and triumph. We have come a long way, but more work still needs to be done. We must never forget the history of the LGBTQ+ movement and the sacrifices that have been made.
Looking Forward with Hope
Despite the challenges, I am hopeful for the future of the LGBTQ+ community in the UK. I am hopeful because I see the progress we have made. I am hopeful because I see the strength of the LGBTQ+ community. I am hopeful because I see the love and support of our allies. I am hopeful because our youth are not leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders today.
Here are some ways to get involved in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK:
Attend a Pride event.
Donate to an LGBTQ+ charity.
As a board member of Outright International. Click to donate
Volunteer your time to an LGBTQ+ organization.
Contact your elected officials and let them know that you support LGBTQ+ rights.
Speak out against discrimination and violence.
Let us celebrate Pride season this year with pride and with hope. Let us celebrate our progress and recommit ourselves to the fight for equality.
In Pride and Solidarity,
Cynthia