With the Labour Party winning a landslide victory in last week’s general election, LGBTQ+ people have been left wondering what life under the new government could look like after 14 years of Tory rule. In its manifesto, Labour committed to a number of pro-LGBTQ+ policies, such as banning all forms of so-called ‘conversion therapy’ for everyone and making existing strands of hate crime an aggravated offence. However, comments made by Keir Starmer (who is now the Prime Minister) during the election campaign have raised concerns over whether or not he will drive his party further right on certain issues, especially when it comes to the rights of the Trans+ community. As such, Gay Star News spoke with nine prominent figures in the LGBTQ+ community to hear what they would like the UK government to focus on, as well as their hopes for the future.
“I hope Labour can remember all the marginalised people that WERE the backbone of the party. I’m particularly concerned for (established) Trans rights under the current rhetoric of Labour leadership. I hope my fears are unfounded.”
Crystal, Drag Artist and Activist
“The new Labour government needs to remember the vulnerable Trans people in this country. Instead of U-turning on some of the most discriminated communities, they need to be making us feel safe and that we can believe in them. Trans women are women, Trans men are men and we all deserve respect.”
Cambell Kenneford, Influencer
“The new government needs to remember that we can end new cases of HIV by 2030 – but only if they provide the support needed to make this goal a reality and work directly with the community. We need proper leadership on this issue, not empty promises and missed opportunities.”
Dan Harry, Star of I Kissed a Boy
“Our voices will not be silenced, our stories will not be erased. The government must recognise that Queer rights are human rights, and the voices of queer people of colour must be heard. Our diverse stories and experiences are what truly make this nation great. It’s time for real change.”
Lucky Roy Singh, Drag Artist and Activist
“The new government needs to NOT strip away Trans rights and NEEDS TO PROTECT TRANS KIDS!”
Amy Spalding, Star of I Kissed a Girl
“Having chastised the previous government for their constant delays in bringing forward legislation to ban ‘conversion therapy’, I expect Labour to fulfil their manifesto commitment of a fully inclusive ban as swiftly as possible. We’ve waited long enough!”
Jayne Ozanne, LGBTQ+ Rights Campaigner
“The new government must commit to protecting LGBTQI+ people who seek sanctuary in the UK by repealing the Illegal Migration Act and the Nationality and Borders Act, and ending the immigration detention of LGBTQI+ people.“
Leila Zadeh, Chief Executive of Rainbow Migration
“How do we influence policy, how do we influence the decision makers in this country? Yes, we need placards at times, but we also need to showcase real life examples of LGBTQ+ people. That is how we win over hearts and minds.”
Zander Murray, Former Professional Footballer
“We’re hopeful that the new government will recognise how key commitments to protecting LGBTQ+ and particularly Trans+ rights are in the current political and social climate. We would love to see more dialogue between community groups and the government, with a focus on raising the voices and experiences of marginalised identities, promoting understanding and honest representation.”
Spokesperson for the Not a Phase charity
