Concern about the direction of some major equality organisations, including Stonewall

Dear Ms Dugdale,

I am writing on behalf of Fantastic Lesbians to express concern about the direction of some major equality organisations, including Stonewall, and the implications this has had for the representation of lesbian and gay people in the UK.

Stonewall was once widely regarded as a leading force for lesbian and gay rights. In recent years, however, many lesbians and gay men have felt that the focus of its work has shifted in ways that no longer centre the specific needs of same-sex attracted people. In particular, there is a perception among some in our communities that the distinction between sex-based same-sex attraction and broader gender identity frameworks is not being sufficiently maintained in advocacy and policy work.

We believe it is important to affirm that lesbians and gay men are same-sex attracted, and that clarity on sex-based definitions remains important when considering safeguarding, services, and the provision of single-sex spaces.

At the recent LGBTQ+ hustings in Glasgow, which you chaired, the issue of the Supreme Court clarification was discussed. However, it was framed primarily in terms of potential negative consequences, rather than as an opportunity to strengthen clarity and protections for lesbian and gay people. We are concerned that this framing, and the lack of balance in how the issue was explored, may reflect a broader approach to leadership, and raises questions about whether the needs of lesbian and gay people will be clearly prioritised under your stewardship at Stonewall.

We are also concerned about the wider policy environment in Scotland, particularly in education. There is a perception among some that current schools guidance places a strong emphasis on gender identity, and that this can create confusion for same-sex attracted young people. In this context, your close personal connection to Jenny Gilruth—who holds ministerial responsibility for Scotland’s education system ()—may give rise to questions about whether there is sufficient independence and balance in how these issues are approached. We believe it is important that any potential conflicts of interest are carefully considered and addressed transparently.

We would also emphasise that robust debate about these issues should not lead to the exclusion or marginalisation of any group, but rather should ensure that the specific needs of lesbians and gay men are not overlooked within broader equality frameworks.
Our central concern is that lesbian and gay people continue to have distinct needs and experiences that deserve clear representation in policy, safeguarding, and charitable advocacy.

We would welcome a continued and open dialogue on how these needs can be properly recognised and addressed within Scotland’s equality and charity sectors.

Yours sincerely,
Fantastic Lesbians