Growing Acceptance Towards LGBT Rights in the UK Marks the Beginning of Pride Month, Reveals a Survey 

As humans, we all need acceptance, and the same is true for the LGBT community. LGBT people have long been fighting for their rights and getting warm treatment from the people. Although given legal rights, LGBT people often have to face anti-LGBT sentiments from people, including their neighbours, colleagues, friends, and family. However, a recent survey revealed that things are changing for the better, marking the start of pride month. The survey was conducted to record the opinion of 2,000 adults from all parts of the UK for Stonewall, the second-largest LGBT charity in the world. The data from the survey showed that the majority of people in the UK take pride in supporting LGBT people. This clearly indicates how anti-LGBT feelings are now limited to a small minority of the public, which is a kind of revolutionary turn for the world. 

Moreover, there was marked consistency in the way people expressed their opinions about different LGBT groups. There was no indication in the data that people favoured one group, e.g. lesbians, over other LGBT groups. In fact, it is a ray of hope to see citizens overcoming their homophobic and transphobic sentiments. LGBT groups have faced hatred from people for a long time, and they believe it’s also linked to motivation. Finally, we can see how people are motivated enough to treat LGBT people with respect and dignity. But what do numbers have to say? It is essential to take a closer look at the data gathered from the survey. 

What Did the Data Reveal?

In terms of data, only about one in ten people relieved a feeling of disgust towards LGBT people. The feelings of fear, resentment, and jealousy were also felt by a considerably small percentage of the surveyed population. The most common feeling of the respondents was that of respect, consideration, and admiration. Overall, it was seen that the UK citizens are four times more positive towards the LGBT community than they are negative. It is indeed remarkable progress in the attitude of people and their perception of LGBT groups. 

Compared with data from the surveys conducted in the past, this turnaround in the social attitude of people seemed unattainable. In the past, two-thirds of the population considered same-sex relationships to be “wrong.” The prevailing sentiments towards these groups were also primarily that of disrespect and disgust back then. 

Will it be Right to Call it a Moment of Victory for LGBT People?

The present data is undoubtedly a moment of victory for LGBT people and the adversities and challenges they have faced for a long time. It also means more safety and security for them as we progress towards a culture of respect and mutual understanding. Nonetheless, it is also essential to keep in mind the harm and the consequences of the hateful sentiments that the remaining population (even though a minority) still hold for these people. As we progress towards a more inclusive space, these issues need to be addressed with great importance.

At present, LGBT people are supported more by people over 55 years of age. While it appears that the younger population would be more tolerating, the numbers reveal a different story justifying the saying “the older, the wiser!” There is still a long way to go where more neutral and active support is needed for our diverse communities. But one cannot neglect the fact that LGBT people have come a long way, and the survey is in itself evidence of it. 

It also leaves us to think of more ways in which LGBT equality can be created. It is only when we, as a group, come together to talk about LGBT rights without any biases and prejudices that these communities (and we as humans) can be empowered in the true sense. So what can be done for greater LGBT equality? 

What Can Be Done for Greater LGBT Equality and Inclusivity?

There are still a number of measures that can be taken to address the issues of LGBT equality further. As we all know, there is still a significant percentage of the population that humiliate LGBT activists. It is high time to understand that LGBT activism has to be encouraged as much as possible. In fact, LGBT activism needs to be celebrated. Doing so will create more awareness about their rights and concerns in people, which in turn, will lead to a more inclusive and peaceful world. 

FAQs

Is the UK LGBT-friendly? 

When it comes to LGBT rights, the UK is one of the most advanced countries in Europe. It provides LGBT communities with legal and civil rights, including same-sex marriage, LGBT adoption, etc. Also, as the survey revealed, people in the UK are also becoming more accepting and friendly towards them. 

What Is Homophobia?

Homophobia means phobia towards homosexual people. It includes a variety of negative emotions and attitudes (hate, fear, disgust) towards people belonging to LGBT communities or the ones who are identified as gay, lesbian, bi, trans, etc. 

Who are LGBT Activists?

LGBT activists are people from LGBT communities who fight for the equal rights of their community in the hope of a better future. LGBT activists are often the victims of violence and hatred. Nonetheless, we should encourage them and LGBT activism to make this world a more inclusive place. 

What Is Pride Month?

Pride Month holds a great significance for the LGBT community. It is the entire month of June dedicated to celebrating LGBT rights, their voices, and culture, calling for equality, inclusion and respect towards their community. It includes parades, protests, dance performances, live theatre, etc., to celebrate the achievements of LGBT people over the years. 

Can People Outside LGBT Community Participate in Pride Events?

Yes, you can participate in pride events to support LGBT people and their rights. In fact, the more support they will get, the better it will be for them. It also helps and educates people on LGBT rights.