I would like to extend my warm congratulations to LGBT Youth Scotland on the launch of their revised Charter and toolkit. The work of LGBT Youth Scotland is crucial in ensuring that all LGBT people have the same choice, control, and freedom as any citizen-at home, in education, in employment and as members of the community. I look forward to working with you to ensure that all LGBT people are able to participate fully in society as equal citizens.
Ros Micklem
National Director for Scotland, Equality and Human Rights Commission
Welcome to the LGBT Charter of Rights
What is the LGBT Charter of Rights?
The LGBT Charter of Rights is a list of rights based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) that some LGBT people feel that they are denied due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. It comes with an accompanying toolkit which is a powerful easy-to-use tool which will provide any organisation that offers services to the community with a mechanism to include, value and support LGBT people.
Where did it come from?
The LGBT Charter of Rights originated in Dumfries and Galloway with LGBT Phoenix Youth supported by LGBT Youth Scotland, the Dumfries Youth Enquiry Service and Save the Children. The young people involved looked at the rights outlined in the UNCRC and UDHR and saw that they were denied some of those rights. A toolkit was created for organisations to use to ensure that they include LGBT people and raise awareness of LGBT issues. Although the Charter was successful as a youth Charter, it was developed to include all LGBT people and look at the rights for LGBT people of all ages.
Why should you get involved?
It is the responsibility of every organisation to value diversity and promote good practice in terms of LGBT equality.
Homophobia is still a problem in Scotland and LGBT people can face homophobia on a daily basis. Only by raising awareness and sending out positive messages to LGBT people and society can we challenge discrimination and promote and enjoy a more inclusive society.
How do you get involved?
Follow this link to register for the LGBT Charter of Rights or click on the Register button on the panel on the left.
LGBT Charter of Rights
Consultation
The list of rights included in the LGBT Charter of Rights are currently undergoing consultation with LGBT young people and LGBT adults to ensure that the LGBT Charter of Rights accurately describes the needs of LGBT people and makes the voices of LGBT people heard.
To make the LGBT Charter of Rights as inclusive for everyone as possible we need your help. Please take a look at the current rights listed and please feel free to contact me at charter@lgbtyouth.org.uk or contact us with any suggestions, comments or recommendations that you may have.
Your opinion counts. Make your voice heard.
You can see the list of rights here.