Ben Pechey is not just a name to know - they’re a force to be reckoned with. A vibrant advocate, writer, and educator, Ben is known for fearlessly addressing the issues that matter to the LGBTQ+ community. With their platform, benpechey.com, they challenge outdated norms and inspire a new generation of activists to step up, speak out, and demand better. Ben’s work is all about empowering people to live authentically while fighting for a world that embraces diversity and equality.
If you’re looking for a voice that cuts through the noise, Ben Pechey is it.
LGBTQ+ activism: From Stonewall to today
Protest has always been the beating heart of LGBTQ+ activism. From the fiery beginnings of the Stonewall riots in 1969 to the ongoing battles for trans rights and equality in the UK today, every victory has come from people standing up, loud and proud. Pride itself started as a protest, reminding us that every rainbow flag waved was once a demand for justice. Activism has pushed governments and societies to recognise the fundamental rights of LGBTQ+ people, and today’s fights are no different.
The Conservative crackdown: Protest under threat
But the right to protest, a cornerstone of activism, is under attack. Thanks to the Conservative government, the UK’s protest laws have tightened, giving police unprecedented power to sanction any demonstration causing “more than a minor disruption.” In reality, this means that any protest the government dislikes can be shut down. Despite a recent High Court ruling against these draconian measures, the Labour government has yet to take action. The fight for the right to protest is now part of the broader struggle for LGBTQ+ equality, making activism even more critical.
Unmissable: How this video can ignite your activist spirit
Ben’s video is a rallying cry for today’s activists. As they powerfully explain, activism doesn’t just happen on the streets. With restrictive laws making traditional protests harder, there are so many ways to keep the fight alive - from contacting MPs, creating petitions, to building communities that spread the message far and wide. Ben highlights the importance of self-care in activism, reminding us that burnout helps no one.
This video is essential viewing for anyone passionate about LGBTQ+ rights. It’s a guide to modern activism in a world where the rules are constantly shifting, and it’s a reminder that the power to create change lies in all of us.
Watch, learn, and get ready to take action - because the fight isn’t over, and Ben Pechey is here to make sure we keep going.
Protest under pressure - the future of LGBTQ+ activism and where to start