From Glitter to Grit: Unveiling Inequalities in the LGBTQIA+ Struggle

As the first hues of June's rainbow streak across our skies, we are reminded of Pride Month, a yearly celebration of progress and a solemn reminder of the challenges we still face. Last year, in my blog "When The Glitter Fades", I explored the financial challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, shedding light on the harsh reality that discrimination often yields lower financial outcomes. This year, I expand my focus to encompass a wider array of persistent inequalities, despite the progress we've made.

Inspired by the immortal words of Harvey Milk, "Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard," I find myself reflecting on these words as I prepare to take you through another journey this Pride Month. A journey that recognises our victories, reflects on the challenges we still face, and reaffirms our commitment to equality and acceptance.

Over the past 50 years, society has walked a transformative path alongside the LGBTQIA+ community. We've witnessed the decriminalisation of homosexuality in many regions, the legalisation of same-sex marriage in numerous countries, and a burgeoning acceptance of gender identities beyond the binary. However, sobering facts punctuate our progress – as of 2022, 68 countries still criminalise homosexuality. These laws are not abstract; they shape real, fear-filled lives, enforcing persecution and denying people the right to live authentically.

In the UK, we find ourselves grappling with a complex set of challenges, where both positive and negative trends emerge. A point of particular contention recently has been the participation of transgender women in women's sports. In March 2023, UK Athletics , the national governing body for Olympic athletics in the UK, issued a controversial statement. They decided to prohibit transgender women who experienced puberty as male from competing in the female category of sports.

This decision has ignited a widespread debate, and I have had the privilege of hearing diverse perspectives on this issue. A trans woman colleague of mine recently shared an insightful viewpoint. While reiterating, as I wholeheartedly believe, that trans women are women, she also pointed out that individual perspectives within the trans community are diverse.

She raised an important health-related scenario where physical differences that arise from a person's biological sex at birth might need to be considered. The need for medical professionals to understand an individual's complete health background to prevent potential misdiagnoses and to provide appropriate care is paramount. In such a case, this understanding would be vital even as the privacy of a person's gender history is maintained. This is a balancing act that needs thoughtful attention in our healthcare systems.

We navigate these complexities in a climate where support for transgender rights appears to be subtly shifting. A 2022 YouGov poll shows a concerning trend: the percentage of Brits acknowledging that trans women are indeed women dropped from 43% in 2018 to 38% in 2022. Opposition to trans women participating in women's sports has risen from 48% in 2018 to a majority of 61% in 2022. These figures indicate a waning acceptance, with the media often playing a role in perpetuating harmful stereotypes and potentially demonising the trans community.

Further adding to the complexity is the alarming increase in hate crimes against the LGBTQIA+ community in the UK. Reports of homophobic hate crimes have doubled, while reports of transphobic hate crimes have tripled over the last five years. The 2021-22 period marked the largest annual increase ever recorded for both categories. These figures likely underrepresent the actual number, as many victims remain hesitant to report such crimes to the police. The increase in hate crimes has been observed in various regions, including Merseyside, Scotland, West Midlands, Greater Manchester, and London.

Meanwhile, in the US, Florida has stoked controversy with its "Don't Say Gay" bill. Just last night, as a lifelong Disney fan, I found myself settling in to watch the live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid." Ariel, the film's protagonist, embarks on a transformative journey, daringly venturing out of her familiar undersea home into a world that's unfamiliar yet intriguing. It's a journey of self-discovery, of finding her voice, much like the journey many in the LGBTQIA+ community embark upon. As I watched Ariel, I couldn't help but draw parallels between her story and the emerging role The Walt Disney Company is playing in resisting repressive legislation like Florida's "Don't Say Gay" bill.

Disney's bold stance, much like Ariel's transformative journey, shows that even big businesses can, and indeed should, make their voices heard in the fight for equality. I hope that more companies will follow Disney's example, demonstrating that the Disney of my childhood is transforming before my eyes, filling me with a sense of unexpected joy and a renewed belief in the power of our collective voices.

These challenges are not just distant or theoretical; they touch our lives and shape our experiences. It is within this complex landscape that I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of acceptance and the transformative power of inclusivity. Beyond my role as the Managing Director of Debt Free Advice , I serve as the Vice Chair of Governors at Hall Mead School in East London, the school where I was a pupil from 2001-2006. Back then, I wasn't out. In fact, no one was. Today, the sight of Pride flags not just on every classroom door - but also on the door of the Head Teacher's office - fills me with a profound sense of joy and pride. These flags are more than just symbols; they are declarations of acceptance, assuring every student, regardless of their identity or orientation, that they are welcome as they are.

Despite our significant strides, we are far from our destination. As we step into Pride Month, let's recognise that our journey continues. The issues we grapple with are not isolated - they intersect and overlap, forming a complex matrix of challenges that require our sustained commitment.

So, what can we as individuals and as a community do to support the LGBTQIA+ struggle?

Support LGBTQIA+ Charities: Consider supporting UK-based charities like Stonewall , Mermaids , or the akt . Donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about their initiatives can have a substantial impact on the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities.

Participate in Pride Events: Join Pride parades, events, and gatherings. These are time-honoured ways to showcase solidarity and uplift the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Support LGBTQIA+ Businesses: Engage with local LGBTQIA+ businesses. Whether it's shopping at LGBTQIA+ owned stores, utilising their services, or attending LGBTQIA+ focused events, we can actively support their growth and contribute to a more inclusive community.

Speak Up Against Discrimination: Let's actively challenge and confront everyday acts of discrimination. Engage in open and respectful conversations, dispel misconceptions, and foster understanding within our circles.

Remember, every action, no matter how small, matters. 

Pride Month reminds us to strive for a world where diversity, dignity, and equality permeate every community. In every sphere—financial services, education, sports, or legislation—let's foster inclusivity and justice.

Every voice, action, and ally are essential on this journey. While far from over, each step takes us closer to a world where all can live their truth.

So, this Pride Month, let's unite in celebration, reflection, and impactful action. Here's to a future that respects and uplifts all.

Happy Pride Month, everyone!