Not another 'Please exercise your right to vote' newsletter.
But it's really important and if you are LGBTQ+, I get it, it's hard to know what to do but we must vote progressive and we must act today!
Today is the day and you are not alone if you are still in two, three or four minds on who to vote for. It really is a mind field out there and the stakes have never been higher for the LGBTQ+ community.
It's crucial to understand that our rights, safety, and well-being are on the line, and the power to protect them lies in our hands.
Here's why it matters and how we can make a difference.
The Threat to LGBTQ+ Rights
Recent political developments have shown a disturbing trend of rolling back LGBTQ+ rights. Keir Starmer's position on certain issues has sparked concern among many in our community. In a letter to Attitude, Starmer emphasised Labour's commitment to LGBTQ+ rights. However, since writing that letter, which was never fully published in the end, Starmer told The Telegraph that he is not in favour of “ideology being taught in our schools on gender.”
Then, this week, in an interview with The Times, he was presented with the following question by Rowling: “Do biological males with gender-recognition certificates have the right to enter women-only spaces? It’s a simple yes/no question.” To this, he replied: “No, they don’t have that right. They shouldn’t. That’s why I’ve always said biological women’s spaces need to be protected.”
And let me be clear: LGBTQ+ rights include trans rights, trans rights are human rights and human rights are not political. Or at least shouldn’t be.
It’s our responsibility to hold them accountable. This is not the time to be complacent; we must be vigilant and proactive.
The Power of Voting Progressive
Voting progressive means supporting candidates who are committed to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and ensuring our community's safety and dignity. Progressive candidates typically advocate for comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, better healthcare access, including mental health services, and robust protections for transgender individuals. These are not just political talking points; they are essential aspects of our everyday lives.
The current political climate has seen a worrying rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies, making it imperative to elect leaders who will stand up for our rights. A progressive vote is a vote for equality, inclusion, and the protection of our hard-won rights.
Whether it’s staunch advocates for justice in the Labour Party like Nadia Whittome in Nottingham East or Zarah Sultana in Coventry South, members of the Green Party like co-leader Carla Denyer in Bristol Central, or Siân Berry in Brighton Pavilion, or independents like Jeremy Corbyn in Islington North, you have the opportunity to vote for a genuine alternative and deliver those to Parliament.
Why This Election Matters
Today is critical for several reasons. Firstly, it will determine the direction of policies affecting LGBTQ+ rights. Secondly, it will signal to the world whether we are moving towards greater inclusion or regressing into discrimination. Lastly, the outcome will affect future generations of LGBTQ+ individuals who deserve to grow up in a society that values and protects them.
A recent article in Metro highlights the increasing concern among LGBTQ+ voters about the erosion of their rights under the current government. This concern must translate into action at the polls. Every vote counts, and collectively, our votes can shape a more inclusive and equitable future.
For many of us in the LGBTQ+ community, today presents a critical choice. The decision isn't always straightforward, however, one thing is certain: it is imperative that we remove the Conservative Party from power and keep them, and other far-right threats like the Reform Party, far away from the levers of government for as long as possible. These groups pose a significant danger to our progress, safety, and hope.
Our Collective Power
No matter how you vote today, remember that your involvement in our democratic system shouldn't end at the ballot box. Voting is just the beginning. I urge you to stay active and engaged in the fight for our rights and freedoms.
Here’s how you can make a difference:
Join Local LGBTQ+ Groups: Organisations like Stonewall, GLAAD, Mermaids and local LGBTQ+ centres provide platforms for activism and community support. By joining these groups, you can stay informed and participate in advocacy efforts.
Attend Rallies and Protests: Visible support for LGBTQ+ rights through marches and rallies sends a strong message to policymakers. It's a demonstration of our community's unity and determination.
Volunteer for Progressive Campaigns: Many progressive candidates rely on volunteers to help with phone banking, canvassing, and voter registration drives. Your time and effort can make a significant impact.
Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, X, and Facebook are powerful tools for raising awareness and mobilising support (even if it sometimes doesn’t feel like it!). Follow and share content from progressive candidates and organisations fighting for LGBTQ+ rights.
Engage with Artistic and Community Spaces: Creating and supporting LGBTQ+ art and community spaces fosters solidarity and cultural expression.
Countless stories of hope, change, and possibility exist within our community. By staying engaged and supporting these movements, we contribute to a broader fight for justice and equality.
Our community has faced countless challenges, but we have always risen to meet them with resilience and solidarity. Today is another crucial moment in our ongoing fight for equality.
Today, cast your vote to get the Tories out of office. By voting progressive, we can ensure that our rights are protected and that we continue to move towards a more inclusive society. Let's make our voices heard and our votes count.
The future of LGBTQ+ rights depends on it.