Stonewall unveils new approach in a "challenging era of LGBTQ+ rights"
– 2 min read
To coincide with Pride season, Stonewall, the UK-based LGBTQ+ rights charity, has launched a sweeping new strategic direction aimed at confronting what it calls a “global rollback” of LGBTQ+ rights.
Under the banner “In courage and unity, is hope,” Stonewall’s new approach marks a return to its activist roots, with a renewed focus on policy influence, alliance building, and workplace inclusion. The charity also revealed a refreshed visual identity to reflect its evolving mission.
Simon Blake OBE, CEO of Stonewall, stated:
“We are standing up - not standing by. These are turbulent times for the LGBTQ+ community, but in courage and unity, there is hope.”
The strategy is built around three core pillars:
- Navigating turbulent times
- Shaping policy
- Creating inclusive places
Stonewall’s move comes as a new YouGov poll commissioned by the charity shows that 67% of the UK public believe the country is inclusive towards LGBTQ+ people, with 60% viewing any shift towards negativity as unwelcome.
Despite this public sentiment, Stonewall warns that many LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination in their communities and workplaces. The UK has also seen a sharp decline in its global ranking for LGBTQ+ rights, prompting the charity to double down on legal and policy advocacy.
As Stonewall approaches its 40th anniversary, the organisation is calling on lawmakers, businesses, and the public to recommit to equality.
“Together we must educate, motivate, and inspire lawmakers to support equality,” the strategy reads.
The charity’s leadership emphasises that while progress has been made, hard-won rights are not guaranteed, and continued vigilance and activism are essential.
Simon Blake OBE, CEO of Stonewall, said: “Stonewall is taking on the global rollback of LGBTQ+ rights head on. We are standing up – not standing by.
“That’s why today, as the UK’s largest Pride event takes place in London, we are launching our new strategic direction. The approach takes us back to our roots: focused on convening, influencing and alliance building.
“These are turbulent times for the LGBTQ+ community - but in courage and unity, is hope.
“Global rights and the principles of inclusion are under threat. Despite the progress we’ve made with others, there is still so much more to do.
"Over two thirds of the UK public think the country is inclusive and the majority of those believe that's a good thing. But we know many LGBTQ+ people do not feel this in their neighbourhoods and workplaces. In policy terms, the reality is different too. The UK has dropped sharply down the global leaderboard for LGBTQ+ rights.
“Until we have achieved equality under the law for all LGBTQ+ people and the UK has risen back to the top there is important work to be done.”
