Don’t Call Me Queer

We have long argued that lesbians, gay men and bisexual people have little in common with those who identify as TQ+.

We believe that the forced teaming of same-sex attracted and TQ+ people, through the use of the aggregate term LGBTQ+ suggests, wrongly, that these distinct groups have common objectives. We don’t, and this umbrella term serves both groups badly.

The Government has abandoned its use of the aggregate term BAME (Black and Minority Ethnic) and we call on them to do the same with LGBTQ+.

Same-sex attracted people must have specific representation. This is a key aim for LGB Alliance in 2024.

You can also take direct action:

1. Share this film of our CEO, Kate Barker, explaining why this matters.

3. Read and share our ‘Don’t Call Me Queer’ report

4. Write to your MP to ask for change using our template letter.

This template is a starting point. Please do include your own thoughts and feelings about why LGB and TQ+ must be treated separately. You can find the name and contact details of your local MP at https://members.parliament.uk/findyourmp

Dear [MP’s name]

I am a lesbian/ gay/ man/ bisexual man/woman and I object strongly to the use of the term LGBTQ+.

I am same-sex/both-sex attracted, (LGB), and have little in common with those who identify as TQ+ . In fact, I feel that their extreme demands often impact negatively on my rights.

Unlike the TQ+ lobby, I don’t want children to be told they’ve been ‘born in the wrong body’ or given puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones. I don’t want men to be allowed into women’s prisons, changing rooms or into women’s sports. Including me in the LGBTQ+ umbrella suggests, wrongly, that I do.

Sexual orientation is a protected characteristic in the Equality Act and I need and deserve specific representation and support based on that.

So I would like to ask that you no longer use the aggregate term LGBTQ+, in your speeches and in your communications. Instead say LGB when you are referring to issues relevant to lesbians, gay men and bisexuals and use TQ+ when discussing gender identity.

I would also be grateful if you would consider discussing my request with the Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson.

Yours sincerely