To our LGBTQ+ communities across Brighton, Hove and Sussex
We are writing to you as LGBTQ+ organisations rooted in our local communities, and as organisations that care deeply about the safety, dignity, rights and wellbeing of every LGBTQ+ person.
Many people in our communities will have read, heard about, or been affected by the publication of the latest EHRC guidance. We know that for many trans and non-binary people, and for those who love, support and stand alongside them, this has caused real fear, uncertainty, exhaustion and hurt. We also recognise that trans and non-binary and especially trans women, trans femme people and people of colour are facing increasing levels of stigma, misinformation and exclusion in public life, and we stand firmly against this.
At moments like this, silence is not neutral. So we want to say clearly and collectively: trans and non-binary people are valued members of our communities. You belong in our LGBTQ+ spaces. You belong in our services. You belong in our organisations. You belong in Brighton, Hove, Sussex and beyond.
Our communities have never been built by drawing the circle smaller. They have been built through courage, solidarity, care and the belief that each of us deserves to live safely, openly and with dignity. That belief remains at the heart of who we are.
We recognise that guidance, policy and public debate can have a very real human impact. Behind every headline and every legal discussion are people trying to live their lives, access support, go to work, see friends, care for family, use services, and simply move through the world with safety and respect. We also recognise that trans and non-binary people have too often been spoken about rather than listened to, debated rather than supported, and treated as an issue rather than as people.
To trans and non-binary people across our communities: We see you. We value you. We are glad you are here. You are not a problem to be solved. You are part of the strength, beauty and history of LGBTQ+ life.
Our organisations are, and will always be, inclusive of trans and non-binary people. We will continue to work to ensure that our services, spaces and communities are welcoming, safe and affirming. We will continue to listen, learn and act with care. We will continue to challenge exclusion wherever we find it. We are clear that transphobia, discrimination and exclusion have no place in our communities or our services. And we will continue to stand alongside trans and non-binary people with dignity, respect and solidarity.
We also want to speak to the wider LGBTQ+ community. We ask everyone across our LGBTQ+ communities, and our allies beyond them, to stand actively in support of trans and non-binary people – in our conversations, our workplaces, our services and our daily lives. Allyship means speaking up against harm, challenging misinformation, and helping create safer spaces for all. This is a moment for care, not division. A moment for solidarity, not silence. A moment to remember that our rights, our safety and our futures are connected. LGBTQ+ communities have always been strongest when we refuse to leave one another behind.
None of our organisations can answer every question alone. None of us can remove all fear or uncertainty with one letter. But together, we can offer something important: a clear message that trans and non-binary people are not alone, and that local LGBTQ+ organisations are committed to working together for the safety, dignity and belonging of all LGBTQ+ people.
This letter is also part of a wider commitment to collaboration. Across Brighton, Hove and Sussex, our organisations hold different roles, histories and areas of expertise. We support people in different ways and at different points in their lives. But we are united by a shared belief: we are stronger together.
We know that our communities need more than statements. They need practical support, safe services, trusted spaces, and organisations that are willing to work together when it matters. We are committed to building that shared voice and shared action, not only in response to this moment, but for the future of LGBTQ+ life across our area.
To anyone who is feeling frightened, angry, tired or uncertain: please know that you are not alone. There are people and organisations here who care about you, who will listen, and who will continue to stand with you.
To trans and non-binary people in particular: your lives matter. Your safety matters. Your joy matters. Your future matters. You are part of our communities, and our communities are better because you are here.
If you are struggling or need support, we encourage you to contact local LGBTQ+ organisations or other trusted services – you deserve to be supported and not to face this alone. If there are reasons why you can’t access us then please let us know and we will do everything we can to remove barriers.
With solidarity, hope and care,
LGBTQ+ organisations across Brighton, Hove and Sussex
