PAPYRU
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By Ryan McKendrick, London volunteer Every great change in history has come from someone standing up in the face of adversity and demanding their human rights. From the Suffragettes to the Civil Rights movement, the power has been within the people, to fight for the change that is needed. LGBTIQ+ rights are no different. In 1969, patrons of New York City’s Stonewall Inn fought back against systematic oppression when resisting a violent raid of the underground LGBTIQ+ nightclub. Protestors, such as Marsha P Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, risked their lives to protect their community; an act which influenced LGBTIQ+ rights movements across the globe. On the oneyear anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, on the 28 June 1970, LGBTIQ+ protestors in New York City took back to the streets to march for the rights of their community – an event now referred to as Pride. 51 years later and Pride is now celebrated across the globe with over 150 festivals worldwide, and our perceptions of Pride have transformed from protest to party. Our huge celebration of Pride in the UK is signified by rainbow flags, blasting pop songs, and glittering drag queens.
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But as a trans person living in the UK it can often be difficult to find something to celebrate. As funding for trans-healthcare is being cut left right and centre, the public, news outlets, and public figures feel qualified to debate whether we can play sports, pee in public toilets, access essential surgery, and even if we can simply exist. While for some the fight may be over, for many it has just begun. As a PAPYRUS volunteer, it is easy for me to see the real impact the UK’s Trans Panic has on my community, 48% of trans people in Britain report having attempted suicide at some point, with 84% having considered it. PAPYRUS offers support for young people who experience these thoughts, and Pride is a time where we can consider where that support is needed most. As a mental health advocate and PAPYRUS volunteer I will fight for my community’s right to receive adequate mental health support, through a time where it can often feel the whole world is against us. For me Pride may be a party, but it will always be a protest.
