Region/Nation: South East

Why I should be elected to the LGBTQ+ Representatives Council:

I have a long history of LGBTQ+ activism from protesting Section 28 in my teenage years, to serving as the Secretary of my local Pride event in Gravesham since 2021. I have been the Secretary of Gravesham CLP for the past 2 years, and with the help of my partner (The Chair of the CLP), we championed the causes of the LGBTQ+ community in our area. I believe the resurgence of  anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment we have seen in the past decade, especially towards the trans community, is the most disturbing and existential threat that we have faced since the 90s. This threat needs to be met head-on, with our communities and Co-operators working together through education, visibility and activism.

I hope you can support me for this position.

Region/Nation: London

Why I should be elected to the LGBTQ+ Representatives Council:

I would like the opportunity to join the LGBTQ+ steering committee to amplify our collective voice, to share our values and to help get as many co-operators elected as possible this year.

2024 is a hugely important year for LGBTQ+ people. With a likely general election, mayoral and local elections, we haven't had a better chance in years to elect a progressive set of representatives. LGBTQ+ rights are at risk from the right, who are using an anti-woke agenda as a means to target our community, in particular our trans colleagues.

The Co-operative Party has a key role to play in ensuring our values are reflected in our candidates, and the LGBTQ+ steering group in turn has an important role in ensuring the co-op is inclusive of our needs.

I work as a NHS GP and I see how difficult life can be, especially if you identify as LGBTQ+. The Co-op Party can and should be a voice for positive change, for recognition, support and shared values. I believe I could add to this voice and ensure the voices of LGBTQ+ members are heard and appreciated.

I have 13 years experience as a national negotiator for my union, the BMA. I am acting chair of my local Labour Party as well as an active Co-op member. I have over a decade of national stakeholder engagement experience, and I hope that I can bring these skills to the fore on the LGBTQ+ steering committee.

Region/Nation: Wales

Why I should be elected to the LGBTQ+ Representatives Council:

I have a long experience in local government serving as a Community and County Borough Councillor for a combined term of 14 years, 50 years of volunteering, a Member Pioneer with the Co-op Group and a trustee with two charities in addition to being a Knights Templar. I am a socialist and my Great Uncle was a former Alderman and Lord Mayor of Sheffield.