In recent weeks we have seen a major resurgence of the BlackLivesMatter movement, with outbreaks of both peaceful and violent protests against police brutality and racism worldwide. Whilst many in the LGBT+ community have given their support to the cause, there have also been a number of critics to the protests, especially regarding circumstances where protests have turned violent.
However, there have been some who remain silent on the issue, typically the more privileged members of our community - typically wealthy, white and cisgender.
It is important that in times of significant political turmoil we remember our history and the foundations that we continue to fight to build upon.
The LGBT+ rights movement was born from the radicalism of the 70s, sparked by a violent riot by disproportionately non-white queer people against police brutality at the Stonewall Inn.
Unfortunately, many sit, ignorant, comfortable, on the shoulders of foundations built by Black queer activitsts like Marsha P. Johson, Bayard Rustin and Stormé Delarerie. They condemn black people for fighting for their rights and say nothing about the continued hatred and violence faced by Black LGBT+ people. They will ignore, take for example, the recent murders of Black trans women Riah Milton and Dominique Fells. Hugely hypocritical behaviour. Behaviour not to be tolerated today.
“It's not intolerant to not tolerate intolerance”
Elianna
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