Newcastle Labour joined more than 8,000 members of the LGBT+ community and allies at this year’s Newcastle Pride, reaffirming the party’s commitment to equality, inclusion and standing up against those who seek to divide our communities.
Pride is both a celebration of the progress won through decades of campaigning and a reminder that equality can never be taken for granted. Many of the rights LGBT+ people enjoy today were delivered by Labour governments, including the repeal of Section 28, the introduction of civil partnerships, the Equality Act and it was Labour MPs votes which ensured equal marriage became law.
But Pride is also a protest. At a time when far-right politics is gaining a louder voice and some politicians are seeking to undermine hard-won rights, Newcastle Labour believes it is more important than ever to stand with the LGBT+ community and defend the values of equality, respect and dignity.
Newcastle has always been a city that is at its best when it brings people together, not when it allows fear and division to take hold. Labour remains committed to building a city where everyone is free to be themselves, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.
Newcastle Labour spokesperson Stephen Barry-Stanners said:
“It was an honour to march through the streets of our city alongside thousands of people celebrating Newcastle Pride. The Labour movement has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the LGBT+ community, and we are incredibly proud of the role Labour has played in delivering many of the rights and protections that people now rightly expect.
“But Pride has never just been a celebration – it is also a protest. Across Britain we are seeing some on the far right attempt to sow division, fuel culture wars and drag us backwards on equality. We cannot allow hatred and prejudice to undo decades of progress.
“Newcastle has always been strongest when we stand together. Labour will continue to stand up for a city where everyone is welcome, everyone is respected, and everyone can live freely and authentically, without fear of discrimination. That is the Newcastle we believe in, and that is the Newcastle we will always fight for.”