Every February we mark LGBT+ History Month. This is an opportunity for the nation to recognise the contributions made to society by the LGBT+ community and raises public awareness of the issues they face in order to challenge discrimination. Margaret Mullane, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate in Dagenham & Rainham has supported many campaigns to improve equality in the workplace and in wider society.
Margaret said: “Despite a lot of progress by trade unions championing LGBT+ equality and rights in the last few years, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT+) workers still face discrimination in the workplace. Labour introduced the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and the Equalities Act 2010; we have a proud history of making sure people are treated equally and this is something worth celebrating. However, despite these lifechanging policies there is still a long way to go in achieving full equality in Britain today. That is why LGBT+ History Month is so important.”
When responsible for Enforcement and Community Safety in Barking and Dagenham Margaret worked closely with the Taylor family, who’s brother Jack was tragically a victim of Stephen Port. Justice is often elusive for ordinary people and particularly for minority groups. That is why Margaret has joined a host of other politicians and campaigners calling for a ‘Hillsborough Law’. If enshrined in law, it would provide bereaved families with a parity of legal representation using public funds just as it is used to support Government and public authority lawyers.
Margaret added: “The idea behind the Hillsborough Law Now campaign is very important to me. If it was in place already, following tragedies like the Stephen Port murders or travesties like Orgreave, ordinary people would have an easier route to the justice they deserve. If the people of Dagenham & Rainham put their faith in me later this year I will fight to secure this legislation.”
Barking and Dagenham Council has several events planned throughout the month to celebrate and raise awareness of issues facing the LGBT+ community. Details below. In Havering, the borough’s libraries will be presenting LGBT+ book displays, where residents can learn about pivotal figures from the LGBT+ community.
Margaret concluded: “We have a vibrant and active LGBT+ community in Dagenham & Rainham across both local authorities. I have met the LGBT+ Forums and look forward to hearing more about the events and activities put on throughout this month.”
Barking and Dagenham Events
LGBTQ+ Poetry Open Mic Night
Date and time: Thursday 15 February, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Venue: Dagenham Library, 1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham RM10 9QS
Register here: Pen to Print: LGBTQ+ Poetry Night with S-Bars and Guest Poets – Pen To Print
Barking and Dagenham LGBTQ+ History Month Social
Date and time: Thursday 22 February, 5 - 6.30pm
Venue: Dagenham Library, 1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham RM10 9QS
Register here: Celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month - LGBT+ Barking and Dagenham Adult Social Tickets, Thu 22 Feb 2024 at 17:00 | Eventbrite
Good for you, Margaret..
We should all be able to live in harmony, without discrimination!