James Cleverly, recently appointed as the UK’s Home Secretary, is facing immediate calls to prioritize the safety of LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking asylum. Cleverly takes over from Suella Braverman, known for her contentious immigration policies and remarks considered harmful by LGBTQIA+ rights groups.
Braverman’s Controversial Tenure
Braverman’s tenure as Home Secretary was marked by several controversial decisions, notably her strong backing of Priti Patel’s plan to relocate asylum seekers to Rwanda. This policy, alongside Braverman’s suggestion that being gay or a woman doesn’t suffice for UK asylum claims, sparked widespread criticism from LGBTQIA+ activists.
Rainbow Migration’s Appeal to Cleverly
Leila Zadeh, Executive Director of Rainbow Migration, a charity supporting LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers, appeals to Cleverly to abandon the Rwanda asylum plan. She emphasizes the importance of treating LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers with kindness and ensuring their safety in the UK, instead of subjecting them to potentially dangerous relocations.
Cabinet Reshuffle and Implications
Cleverly’s appointment is part of a broader cabinet reshuffle, setting the stage for the next general election. The reshuffle includes David Cameron as Foreign Secretary, Victoria Atkins as Health Secretary, Steve Barclay as Environment Secretary, Laura Trott as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and Richard Holden as Conservative Party chairman.
In summary, as the new UK Home Secretary, James Cleverly faces significant pressure to reformulate the government’s stance on LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers. Advocacy groups like Rainbow Migration are calling for a departure from Braverman’s policies, urging a more compassionate and protective approach for those fleeing persecution due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.