TG PRIDE ADDRESS 2025
Firstly, I want to give a major thanks and congratulations to the committee on their 4th successful Pride—bigger and brighter than ever!
Four years ago, this group of committed, passionate individuals came together to make something happen for our community.
They didn’t go to the government or ask permission; they just rolled their sleeves up, got to work, and just look around at what those efforts have accomplished!
I also want to thank each and every one of you who’s shown up today. Without courageous voices like yours, standing up for equality, Gibraltar would be a darker, more dangerous place.
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Together, we’re here to celebrate the progress we’ve made as a community.
We’re here to honour the hard work and the tremendous sacrifices that went into winning the rights we deserve.
And most importantly, we’re here to stand up for love in the face of hate.
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It’s no secret that it’s been a tough year for LGBTQ+ people around the world.
When I speak to people about what’s going on around the world, it can feel like every headline is a step backwards.
Like many of you, I’ve been deeply worried about the tragic backslide on transgender rights in the UK. I’ve been worried that bullies have tried to use this as an excuse to spread hate online and even harass people in public and in their workplaces.
Rights that were won over decades of activism are now slipping away because politicians would rather pander to bigots than to stand up for some of the most vulnerable, for the crime of just trying to be themselves.
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That’s why we can’t be afraid and we can’t mince our words.
LGBTQ+ rights are human rights. Trans rights are human rights.
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Every Gibraltarian deserves dignity.
Deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Deserves the love and support to be their true, authentic self.
So please stand with me and make your voices heard. Because YOU are the ones who have the power to make a difference in someone’s life. Especially those who can't be here today.
Someone today is wondering what it means to come out. What it will mean for their relationships, their opportunities, and even their safety.
So when we march together, we’re also marching with each of them. And sending a clear message, that love and acceptance are always worth fighting for.