How the UK is Making Headway with LGBT-Friendly Politicians

As the U.S. welcomes its first trans state senator and first black gay congressperson, across the pond, progress also transpires. So, how are our British allies handling diversity, equality, and inclusiveness in politics?

The Current State of Play

Right now, there are 24 LGBT Conservative MPs (Republican equivalent), 20 LGBT Labour MPs (Democratic equivalent), one Liberal Democrat LGBT MP, and 10 Scottish National LGBT MPs.

Impressive, considering the first out leader of politics was Patrick Harvie in 2008, and the first out Cabinet Minister was Chris Smith in 1997.

Did you know that the first LGBT member of parliament was actually in 1597? Anthony Bacon was an independent candidate, of a powerful British family. He did face persecution for his sexuality, however, and was charged with sodomy, at the time a criminal offense, at least once.

Brits are becoming more accepting of LGBT politicians, in general. A 2019 poll found three out of five British people would accept an LGBT reigning monarch.

In terms of the London Mayoral position, LGBT-friendly Mayor Sadiq Khan remains popular across all demographics and is currently on top in all the London Mayoral election odds. This is a great sign for Londoners who welcome his progressive approach to London society.

This, combined with the highest-ever ratio of LGBT parliamentary members, means this once-prudish nation is moving towards a more inclusive and diverse political environment.

London Mayoral Elections

Sian Berry is a great example of an LGBT-friendly candidate. Representing the Green Party, she recently unveiled plans to make London the most trans-inclusive city in the world, if elected. LGBT rights are a core of her campaign, and she wants to remove obstacles for trans and non-binary individuals with problems accessing healthcare, employment, and housing.

Furthermore, she wants to crack down on discrimination.

Also, she spoke of spearheading the creation of hubs for queer people, where they can seek information and support regarding their sexuality. Additionally, she plans to launch a specialized data collection system ensuring the needs of queer Londoners are met adequately.

So far, the race for the position of London Mayor seems to suggest a third-term win for the incumbent Sadiq Khan. A liberal Muslim, Khan has been a steadfast supporter of the community and supports same-sex marriage, attends pride and Mardi Gras events, and backs the education of children on LGBT matters in schools.

In 2019, citizens asked that those living in the country be given the right to vote for the London mayor, such as the influence that the position holds. Sadly, this wasn't accepted, but it could potentially be on the agenda for the next general elections.

The Future

At the same time as the race for the Mayor of London, the UK will elect local council members and 13 other mayors. While candidates are still coming forward, odds are there will be a LGBT candidates among them.

This is important for a country like the UK, where attitudes and services for community members can vary significantly from north to south and east to west.

For example, people tend to be more conservative in their views in rural or non-metropolitan communities. This means the upcoming elections are a good way for equal representation to make its way into local and national politics.