PROTECTING YOUR EQUALITY RIGHTS AFTER BREXIT

The Windsor Framework, previously known as the NI Protocol, has never been far from the headlines and while the debate has been dominated by trade issues and borders, did you know that the Windsor Framework also protects equality and human rights after Brexit, including important legal protections for the LGBTQ+ community?

In the Windsor Framework, the UK Government has committed to ensuring that certain rights, safeguards, and equality of opportunity protections, covered by the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, are not reduced because of Brexit and that certain equality laws in Northern Ireland will keep pace with any future changes in EU law.

These laws include anti-discrimination laws which protect against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation in areas such as employment.

The Equality Commission, along with its partner, the

Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, has a responsibility to ensure that the Government upholds the equality protections committed to in the Windsor Framework.

Speaking about the role of the Commissions, Chief Commissioner Geraldine McGahey said “We are here to protect your rights. We continue to work with the LGBTQ+ community to raise awareness of these rights and can also provide advice if your rights are compromised. In certain cases, we may also be able to provide legal assistance through the Courts.

“As a long supporter of Belfast Pride, we are hoping to highlight these protections and raise awareness of our Brexit responsibilities at the Commission’s stand at Pride Village this year. Our team will also be on hand to answer any queries raised.”

If you have a concern about your equality rights, due to your sexual orientation, you should contact the Com- missions for advice as soon as possible.

More information on your rights after Brexit is available on the Equality Commission’s website www.equalityni.org/rights-after-brexit