A Little Lesbian Love for Labour
The Labour Party is one of the most left-wing parties running in the European elections, proudly stating that they work to promote diversity and faith communities. They receive a great deal of support from young people, as well as their affiliated trade unions and socialist societies. Labour wish for us to remain in the E.U., placing them in direct opposition to parties such as UKIP.
Leader of the party, Ed Miliband, says he is committed to increasing the involvement and visibility of underrepresented groups in society. To do this, he hopes to increase the number of women and BAME MPs in Parliament. He has also stated that he wishes to have a more 'rainbow parliament', by ensuring LGBT candidates are fair and equally represented.
The Labour Party is affiliated to the Socialist society 'LGBT Labour'. The group prides themselves with their impressive involvement in the history of gay liberation. Indeed, it was the Labour Party who was responsible for the decriminalisation of homosexuality, the securing of civil partnerships, and the allowance of gay adoption. They were also deeply involved with the legalisation of same-sex marriage that occurred earlier this year.
Few accusations of homophobia have been made against the Labour Party, however, a surprising scandal occurred in February this year. Farooq Ahmed, a Labour Councillor, was accused of using 'homophobic slur' with a colleague. To ensure that the matter did not reflect poorly on the party, he asked to be suspended.
Labour Party members Jim Fitzpatrick and David Bradley have also been accused of sending homophobic tweets and messages to opposing candidates.
Labour has been supported by political campaigner Peter Tatchell, who joined the party in 1978. He faced horrible homophobia and direct discrimination from other parties, including an accusation of paedophilia from the BNP. However, the Labour Party showed their true (rainbow-hued) colours with the support and strength that they offered him.
To cast your vote to the left, consider voting Labour. They have worked hard in the journey for LGBT liberation, and plan to continue their work primarily by securing more LGBT seats in parliament. After all, who knows more about our struggle than us?