In a major stride toward justice, the UK might finally stop playing favorites with hate crime victims. A proposed amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill could upgrade LGBTQ+ hate crimes—alongside those targeting disability—to “aggravated offences,” putting them on par with racially and religiously motivated crimes when it comes to legal consequences.
It’s a move being led by Labour MP Rachel Taylor, in partnership with LGBTQ+ rights group Stonewall. The duo introduced New Clause 122, which seeks to end the unjust hierarchy that currently exists within UK hate crime law. Right now, only race and religion get the “aggravated” label—meaning harsher penalties—while sexual orientation, transgender identity, and disability are left with the legal equivalent of a shrug.
Taylor, not one to mince words, called out this disparity in Parliament. “We cannot say, as a society, that some forms of hatred are more evil than others,” she said. “All hatred is equal.” Period.
Remembering Soho—and Demanding Better
Taylor didn’t just bring legalese to Parliament—she brought history. Citing the horrific 1999 London nail bombings, where a gay bar, a Black community, and a Bengali neighborhood were all targeted, she reminded everyone exactly what’s at stake. The LGBTQ+ community, like all others, has bled for its existence. It deserves protection that reflects that reality.
This isn’t just a Labour party moment, either. MPs across the aisle, including Liberal Democrat Luke Taylor, voiced full-throated support. “This strengthens the law and seeks to protect people not just for who they are, but for who they’re associated with,” he said. Meanwhile, Labour’s Jacob Collier threw in that it’s “about dignity.” Because yes—getting punched in the park for being trans, or spat at on the Tube for being gay, should make the law sit up and pay attention.
And let’s not forget: it’s Pride Month. Could the timing be any more appropriate?
The Numbers—and the Reality
Recent stats tell the story. In the year ending March 2024, police recorded over 22,800 hate crimes based on sexual orientation, and nearly 4,800 targeting trans people. Yet these victims are still legally second-tier compared to those facing racial or religious attacks.
Simon Blake, CEO of Stonewall, called the amendment a “milestone.” He’s right. “Putting sentencing on equal footing” isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s about sending a loud, unambiguous message to every courtroom, police precinct, and street corner in the UK: Hate is hate.
The LGBTQ+ community, especially its most vulnerable members—trans youth, queer people of color, disabled queer folks—has waited long enough. Real protection can’t be piecemeal. It must be firm, fair, and backed by the full power of the law.
One Step Closer, But Still Watching
Taylor said she’s “absolutely delighted” the government is moving with her on this. Same here. But the LGBTQ+ community knows the drill: promises are lovely, but legislation is everything. If this passes through the House of Lords as expected, the UK will be taking a long-overdue leap toward true equality under the law.
And if not? Don’t worry. The queens, queers, and allies will be watching—and they won’t go quietly.