Keir Starmer’s much-anticipated first Labour Party conference speech as Prime Minister has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from LGBTQ+ advocates who noticed the glaring absence of direct references to their community. Despite addressing equality, Starmer sidestepped pressing issues such as the rising rate of LGBTQ+ hate crimes and the severe delays in trans healthcare services.
Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide victory in July, emphasized themes of equality and fairness. He spoke about creating a Britain where every person, regardless of their background, has an equal voice. “A Britain that won’t expect you to change who you are just to get on,” he said. However, this sweeping statement left many LGBTQ+ supporters feeling overlooked, as their community continues to face systemic challenges that need specific attention.
While the Prime Minister’s focus on fairness may resonate broadly, LGBTQ+ activists argue that silence on their issues is concerning. Hate crimes targeting LGBTQ+ individuals are on the rise, and healthcare waiting times for trans people remain a significant problem. These are critical areas that demand leadership and concrete action from the government, especially one that claims to stand for equality.
Starmer’s speech was not without interruption. A heckler disrupted the event, leading to a sharp retort from the PM. The incident briefly diverted attention from the policy-heavy speech, but LGBTQ+ activists still noted the broader implications of his words—or lack thereof.
In a post-election era where equality is a central theme, omitting LGBTQ+ issues can send a message of marginalization. If Starmer is serious about building a Britain that recognizes every individual, his government will need to confront the specific struggles faced by LGBTQ+ communities.
