Time to halt equality rollback
At a time when politicians seek to divide communities and target those already facing prejudice, the Scottish Greens have warned that the current political climate is becoming increasingly hostile for many people, especially those from already marginalised communities.
The party said Scotland needs leadership that stands up for dignity, fairness and human rights, and that there can be no going back on equality.
That must include halting the rollback on LGBTQ+ rights and finally delivering a full ban on so-called conversion therapy, a harmful and degrading practice that is utterly incompatible with a society built on dignity, equality and respect.
It also means expanding inclusive education and anti-bullying programmes in Scotland’s schools, challenging the undemocratic block on gender reform and investing in gender-affirming care to let people live as who they really are.
Scottish Greens co-leader, Gillian Mackay said:
“Equality must be at the heart of Scotland’s future. It is not something that should be compromised, delayed or treated as negotiable.
“In the current climate, too many people feel less safe, less secure and less valued, and that is why the Scottish Greens are absolutely clear that there can be no going back on equality.
“We want to build a fairer, greener Scotland where everyone is treated with dignity, where people are free to live as themselves, and where their rights are protected in law and in practice. That means standing up to division and scapegoating wherever it appears, and ensuring that progress is not diluted, reversed or twisted.
“The Greens want a Scotland that works for everyone, regardless of who they are, where they come from or who they love.
“That must include finally delivering a full ban on so-called conversion therapy, because nobody should ever be subjected to the harm, trauma and indignity of being told that who they are needs to be changed.
“While others seek to divide people for political gain, scapegoating those who already face discrimination and insecurity, the Scottish Greens will not abandon people.”
Gillian added:
“At a time when Nigel Farage’s Reform is fuelling hostility, and Labour and the Conservatives compete to echo parts of that agenda, the Greens will stand firm in defence of equality, dignity and human rights.
“We believe the answer to the challenges people face lies in confronting entrenched wealth and power, not turning communities against one another.
“The Scottish Greens will always stand for equality, compassion and human rights. On 7th May, every vote for the Scottish Greens will be a vote for a fairer, kinder and more inclusive Scotland, and for a future where nobody is left behind.”