But, as we've mentioned elsewhere on the Sh! blog, February is also LGBT History Month! This month is a time for everyone to reflect on the successes and achievements of gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans* and queer people all over the country, over time!
February is already shaping up to be a landmark moment in the struggle for global equal rights...Earlier this year the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill was brought to the house of commons, getting its second reading on February 5th, and passing by a majority of 400 to 175!This exciting news means that the UK is one step closer to having equal marriage available to all its citizens, a political imperative that, even if you don't personally want to take advantage of, should be accessible to all.
The reason why we believe that equal marriage is so important is simple: inequalities widen the gap between different types of people, validate homophobia and encourage ignorance about minority groups. The introduction of Equal Marriage is just one of the ways that we can start to break down the harmful barrier between 'normal' and 'other' in British society.
This Valentine's day, as you cuddle up with your loved one(s), take a mo to think about how important it is that everyone has the ability to publicly express their feelings for whomever they love, and that these feelings be legally recognised. Hopefully by this time next year the bill will be in effect and Valentine's cards for lovers of all genders and orientations will be common in Clintons!
