Stereotypes about the LGBTQ+ community being soft and fragile couldn’t be further from the truth. A powerful story shared by Sarah Owen, the chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, during a debate for LGBT History Month in the House of Commons, perfectly illustrates this.

A Night Out Turned Heroic

When Sarah Owen was 20, she often felt safer and more comfortable in gay nightclubs than in straight clubs. One particular night, after enjoying time at a gay club with friends, the group craved late-night kebabs and chips. However, the evening took a dark turn when a group of young men started hurling abuse at them.

Despite standing up for herself, the situation escalated as the group left the kebab shop. Chips thrown in jest quickly turned into punches, and Owen was pushed to the ground. In that moment, her gay and non-binary friends stood up for her, physically taking on five men to protect her. Owen herself didn’t stop fighting either, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the entire group.

The Power of Community and Allyship

Owen also shared a personal story about her ‘dearest friend’ Helgi, a member of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, who supported her through multiple miscarriages. His unwavering presence during her surgeries was another testament to the strength and compassion within the LGBTQ+ community.

She emphasized the need for allies to stand up for LGBTQ+ people, who are often targeted, isolated, and in need of support. Her heartfelt plea was not just for allies to speak up but to actively support and defend the rights, dignity, and future of the community.

A Reflection on Past Struggles and Progress

The debate also featured contributions from Dame Nia Griffith, who came out as a lesbian in 2016 at the age of 57. She shared her experiences as a teacher during the era of Section 28, a law that banned the ‘promotion of homosexuality’. The law put educators in a difficult position, unable to fully protect LGBTQ+ students from discrimination without risking their own jobs.

Griffith expressed regret over not being able to do more for her students. However, Owen reassured her that taking a stronger stance at the time could have cost her job. The exchange highlighted the need for grace and kindness towards oneself when reflecting on the past.

Practical Takeaways and Insights

• Allyship in Action: Standing up for someone in a dangerous situation, as Owen’s friends did, is a profound example of allyship.
• Support Beyond Words: True allies are there in both physical and emotional crises, as seen through Helgi’s support during Owen’s miscarriages.
• History Shapes Today: Laws like Section 28 had long-lasting impacts, reminding us why advocacy and legislative changes remain crucial.
• Be Vocal and Visible: Allies should not only support privately but also publicly advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and safety.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for All Allies

Owen’s story is a reminder that the LGBTQ+ community embodies strength and resilience. Allies have a vital role in amplifying these voices, standing against discrimination, and fostering a safe and inclusive society for all. Whether it’s in moments of crisis or through everyday actions, supporting the LGBTQ+ community requires commitment, compassion, and courage.