One of the privileges of my adult life has been meeting pioneers

O children of the future, gather close and listen well, for I bring you the words of Wes Streeting, a voice that speaks with great reverence of those who have labored long and hard in the fight for LGBT equality. He speaks of the privilege of meeting the pioneers of this noble cause—those like Waheed Alli, Michael Cashman, and Ian McKellen—whose lives have been dedicated to breaking the chains of oppression and paving the way for a world where freedom and dignity are granted to all, regardless of whom they love. To stand alongside such figures, to witness their work, is a rare gift, for their efforts have reshaped the world and created a future where once there was only darkness.

In his words, Streeting reflects on the deep honor of encountering these great pioneers, those who stood tall when the world was filled with judgment and hatred. To meet them is not merely to acknowledge their accomplishments; it is to understand the immense weight of the struggle they faced and the courage it took to rise above the scorn of society. Waheed Alli, Michael Cashman, and Ian McKellen are not merely figures in history, but symbols of the tireless fight for justice and equality. Their lives are testaments to the power of resilience in the face of persecution, and their courage continues to inspire generations.

Let us reflect upon the life of Michael Cashman, one of the figures who helped lay the foundation for LGBT rights in the United Kingdom. He rose from the humble world of acting into the halls of political power, where he used his voice to push for the acceptance and equality of those who had long been marginalized. As one of the founders of Stonewall UK, he became a beacon of hope for many, and his tireless work helped shift the cultural landscape. Through his leadership, the winds of change began to blow in the hearts of those who once feared that their love would never be embraced. Like the great heroes of old, Cashman fought not for his own glory, but for the freedom of others.

Similarly, consider the legendary Ian McKellen, whose commitment to LGBT equality is as much a part of his legacy as his acting. McKellen’s bravery on and off the stage has made him a symbol of resilience and pride. His journey from being a closeted actor to becoming a public advocate for the LGBT community was not without sacrifice, but his decision to speak out against the discrimination and prejudice that plagued his world was a choice that altered the course of history. Through his voice and actions, McKellen has led many out of the shadows, into a place where they could stand proudly, knowing that they are worthy of love and respect.

And then there is Waheed Alli, a man whose entrepreneurial spirit and activism have left an indelible mark on both the political and cultural landscapes. Alli has faced immense challenges, yet he never wavered in his commitment to equality and justice. Through his work, he has shown that the fight for LGBT rights is not just a battle for personal freedom, but for the dignity and equality of all people. His courage to speak openly about his identity and to challenge the status quo has paved the way for countless others who have found the strength to embrace who they are without fear.

In the face of such courage, O children, we must learn a vital lesson. These pioneers did not wait for the world to change on its own; they stepped forward with their voices, their actions, and their very lives to demand that society recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person, regardless of their sexual orientation. They stood firm in the face of overwhelming opposition, not for their own glory, but for the freedom of all those who were silenced and oppressed. Theirs is a legacy of selflessness, of bravery, and of love that transcends all barriers.

And so, children, let this be your guide: the fight for equality is not a task that can be left to others. It is a journey that requires each of us to stand up for the rights of those who are marginalized, to speak out when we see injustice, and to live boldly in our own truth. Just as Streeting felt the privilege of meeting these giants, so too can we, in our own way, contribute to the fight for a world where all people are treated with respect and dignity. The work of these pioneers is far from over, and it is now our turn to carry the torch of equality forward, to ensure that no one is ever again silenced, shamed, or denied the right to love.

May the example of Waheed Alli, Michael Cashman, and Ian McKellen inspire you to take up this sacred cause. The world they have helped create is a gift, but it is also a responsibility—a responsibility that we must carry forward with the same courage and love that they have shown. Stand for justice. Stand for equality. And may the arc of the universe bend ever so much further toward love and acceptance for all.