"We Need to Speak Out for Trans Rights” - Liberal Democrats Renew Call For Solidarity and Action on LGBTQ+ Rights

On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), Southwark Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Victor Chamberlain used his speech at Southwark Council’s Annual Meeting to renew calls for action and solidarity with LGBTQ+ people.  

Citing the fear created by the recent Supreme Court ruling and the government’s response, the Lib Dem leader urged the council to remember the unanimous commitment it had made to stand with its trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming communities. The motion, which passed in late 2023, called for a council-led LGBTQ+ strategy, which has still not materialised.  

In the days following the Supreme Court ruling, which campaigners say represents a backsliding on trans rights, Cllr Chamberlain wrote to the Cabinet Member for Equalities and Chief Executive, demanding that the council make a show of solidarity with the trans community to demonstrate that Southwark is as committed to LGBTQ+ rights as it should be.  

Commenting, Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:  

“Southwark is an increasingly thriving place for our LGBTQ+ community, and I’m proud to be a voice for a community that is increasingly marginalised and scapegoated by politicians.  

I moved a motion that was unanimously passed by the council that said we firmly believe that trans rights are human rights – that trans men are men, trans women are women, and non-binary identities are valid. Now, more than ever, we need the administration to stand up and be counted, implement the LGBTQ+ strategy, and stand up for trans rights."