King Joins First Official LGBT Event Following Veterans’ Campaign
The LGBT+ veterans community in the UK has reached a significant milestone as King Charles III participated in the first official event dedicated to this group. This event commemorates the contributions of LGBT+ veterans, especially those affected by historical bans.
Background of the Event
Organized by the charity Fighting With Pride, the event aims to raise awareness and support for LGBT+ veterans. The organization focuses on providing justice and care for individuals impacted by bans on LGBT+ individuals in the military.
Key Highlights
- Event Occasion: The event marked the unveiling of a memorial dedicated to impacted veterans.
- Financial Redress: Affected veterans can apply for reparations of up to £70,000.
- Support Initiatives: Other initiatives include pardons for criminal convictions and a special LGBT+ veterans ribbon.
Emotional Impact and Future Support
Peter Gibson, chief executive of Fighting With Pride, expressed that the memorial is a powerful symbol. He stated, “It’s a deeply emotional moment, expressing in physical form that what happened to them should never have taken place.”
Gibson also emphasized the hope that this memorial would prompt more veterans to come forward for support and reparations. He acknowledged the ongoing need for justice, asserting, “We know there are more veterans who suffered under the ban who are owed justice and reparations.”
Ministry of Defence’s Response
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence expressed deep regret over the treatment of these veterans. They stated that such experiences do not reflect today’s values or the commitment to inclusivity within the armed forces. The spokesperson also commended the bravery of veterans who have shared their stories.
The event serves not only as a remembrance but also as a step towards healing and inclusivity for all personnel in the military.
