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Standing Together for LGBTQ+ Equality

Lots of people marching in a protest to stand up for LGBTQ+ people's rights

This past June, Pride Month was a time to celebrate identity, resilience, and progress. But it also served as a stark reminder of the growing hostility and misinformation facing LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. Ian Robson, CEO of Derbyshire LGBT+, spoke about the urgent need to stay informed, engaged, and politically active in the face of these challenges.

To support this, Derbyshire LGBT+ is hosting Community Conversations — safe spaces where people can come together, share concerns, and explore ways to take action. After 42 years of fighting for equality, the organisation is now facing unprecedented demand for support, while funding continues to be cut.

This year’s World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th carried the theme “Changing the Narrative”. It highlighted the importance of intersectionality in understanding suicide risk, especially within LGBTQ+ communities. MindOut, an LGBTQ mental health service, reported that 8 in 10 of their service users have experienced suicidal thoughts — with even higher rates among bisexual, trans, and queer Black and Brown people. These disparities are deeply rooted in systemic issues like racism, homophobia, homelessness, and social isolation.

Simon Blake, CEO of Stonewall, echoed these concerns. He pointed to rising hate crimes, shrinking funding, and increasing fear among LGBTQ+ people — especially trans and non-binary people. The April Supreme Court judgment on the definition of “woman” and “man” in the Equality Act, and the Equalities & Human Rights Commission’s draft Code of Practice, have left many feeling excluded and unsafe.

Stonewall’s new strategy, “In courage and unity, is hope,” calls for bold political leadership and sustained commitment to LGBTQ+ rights. From advocating for a full ban on conversion practices to pushing for better trans+ healthcare and inclusive education, the movement is focused on shaping policy and rebuilding trust.

In a world that feels increasingly hostile, it’s more important than ever to stand together. Whether through open conversations, or political advocacy, we all have a role to play in changing the narrative — and creating a society where LGBTQ+ people can live, feel safe, work, and thrive.

Photo by Ian Taylor on Unsplash

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