It was a pleasure to be asked to open the LGBT Labour AGM today. After many years of progressive advances for LGBT+ people we have entered an era of backlash. This means we cannot take these gains for granted. The politics of hate and division can be seen manifesting itself increasingly on our streets. Hate crimes are on the rise as the shocking homophobic & misogynistic Hampstead bus attack illustrated only too well. Meanwhile Anne Widdecombe has resurfaced as a Brexit Party MEP openly supporting gay conversion therapies and speculating that science will ‘solve’ the LGBT ‘problem’. The sinister backlash against the introduction of LGBT inclusive sex and relationship education at Anderson Park Primary in Birmingham is a throwback to the darkest days of the odious Section 28. And these damaging protests are supported by Tory leadership candidate Esther McVey and shockingly a local Labour MP. We must fight to protect the rights of all human beings to be treated equally and respected in an inclusive society and not succumb to the hated and division being fermented by the extreme right. That is why I am proud to call myself both a trans ally and a socialist feminist. LGBT Labour goes from strength to strength – Have a great day and keep up the good work!