Fighting With Pride (FWP), the LGBTQ+ Armed Forces charity, has launched #OpCrescendo, a call to the entire community and supporters to contact MPs so that they can represent you at the debate for securing Financial Compensation for LGBTQ+ veterans.
If you’re not sure where to start, FWP has created a template letter for you to send here. FWP is able to offer all kinds of online and in person support to help you have your voice heard and represented in the House of Commons.
Craig Jones MBE, Head of Campaign at FWP, said: “Many serving members of the Armed Forces and veterans came to Brighton & Hove in the years of the ‘gay ban’ because the city was a safe place, away from the military police who regularly monitored LGBTQ+ places in the military towns.
“Hy husband and I arrived here in 1997 and this wonderful and welcoming city helped us to quietly make it through until the ban was finally lifted in January 2000 by the actions of campaign group Rank Outsiders.
“But so many amazing LGBTQ+ members of our Armed Forces were not so fortunate and lost their careers, income, homes and peace of mind. They were outed to families and friends and subjected to shocking police investigations and abhorrent medical inspections. For many their departure from the Armed Forces was through the gates of a military prison or detention centre.
“Our incredible LGBTQ+ veterans protected our peace and freedom but were treated with abject cruelty. They deserve to be recognised as the heroes they are and washed of the shame they have felt for decades. There is a duty upon the Government to bring to those affected by this policy justice and comfort in older age.
“Please support LGBTQ+ veterans by writing to your MP and mentioning Fighting With Pride.”
For more info, contact FWP: info@fightingwithpride.org.uk.