Wishart marks Pride Month 2024
Shetland MSP and Scottish Liberal Democrat Beatrice Wishart has marked Pride Month 2024 by reaffirming her commitment to championing equality for all LGBT+ people.
Every June, Pride month is celebrated internationally, with the aim of achieving equal access and opportunity for LGBT+ people worldwide. Pride creates a safe space for all LBGT+ people and allies to celebrate progress that has been made in advancing equal rights, while continuing to raise the plight of LGBT+ people who face persecution and discrimination.
LGBT+ youth are more likely to suffer from poor mental health than their heterosexual counterparts. Numbers of LGBT+ people reporting harassment in the past five years has risen. Scottish Liberal Democrats continue to campaign for LGBT+ equality and for an end to the harmful practice of sexual orientation and gender identity conversion therapy.
Ms Wishart said:
“Each year Pride month shines a light on inequalities faced by LGBT+ people while celebrating diversity and progress made on equal rights. It was encouraging to see that many people turned out for Shetland Pride this year on 15th June despite the rainy weather.
“Unfortunately, in many places across the globe LGBT+ people still face oppression. Homosexuality is illegal in more than 60 countries.
“As Pride Month draws to a close, it is important not be complacent about equality. Everyone should live in a society free from abuse, discrimination and marginalisation.
“I look forward to a world where nobody is disadvantaged because of their identity.”
ENDS