“Pride month might be over, but the fight for equality must go on.” Feryal Clark MP calls for continued energy in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality.

Pride month has been different again this year.

We haven’t been able to march together in the way we normally would, but it has been incredibly heartening to see the efforts everyone has made to celebrate and show their solidarity.

This month I’ve questioned several ministers on what the Government is doing to promote equality for LGBTQ+ people both here and abroad, and ensure the UK is a champion for LGBTQ+ rights around the world.

Whether it be challenging states who continue to show a frank disregard for the most basic of human rights, tackling discrimination on our streets, or tackling the housing crisis which we know disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ people, this Government can and must do more.

I have also joined with key organisations including the Terrence Higgins Trust, National Aids Trust, and Elton John Aids Foundation to call on the Government to develop a HIV action plan worthy of its name.

The response to my letter to the Health Secretary on this issue committed the Government to developing this plan, and I look forward to working with the organisations above to ensure that commitment comes to fruition.

However, we cannot put our feet up now that Pride month has come to an end.

The fight for LGBTQ+ equality does not start and end in June, and it is incumbent on all of us to continue to speak up and speak out.

As a proud ally, I pledge to continue to do everything I can to lobby the Government, and work in parliament to raise awareness of key issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

Pride month might be over, but the fight for equality must go on.