Pride, Service, and the Strength of Inclusion

At a time when the rights of people to live freely and be themselves are under attack by those who seek to divide us with hatred and intolerance, Maidstone Borough Council — under the joint leadership of the Liberal Democrats and the Green and Independent Alliance — is determined that our Borough will remain a tolerant community that celebrates diversity as a strength, not something to be ashamed of.

This Pride Month, we reflect on the progress the UK has made in advancing LGBT+ rights — and acknowledge how far we still have to go. A powerful example of that progress is the transformation within our own Armed Forces.

Until 2000, gay people were banned from serving in the British military. Thousands of capable service personnel were dismissed or forced to hide who they were. Chris Passmore, who until recently was the County Councillor for Maidstone Central, served in the Royal Navy during the 1980s. He recalls serving with a naval officer who was gay — though it could never be spoken of at the time. He was, Chris says, “highly competent, trusted and respected by all who served with him — but forced to live a lie to continue his career.”

That unjust policy was overturned in January 2000, following a landmark ruling by the European Court of Human Rights. Since then, the Armed Forces — including the Royal Navy — have gone from exclusion to inclusion. Today, LGBT+ personnel serve openly and proudly. The military now takes part in Pride events, celebrates diversity in recruitment and leadership, and is recognised as a modern, inclusive employer.

This week, the Pride Flag flies over Maidstone Town Hall, alongside the Union Flag, the Borough Flag, and the Armed Forces Day Flag — a striking symbol of how we honour both tradition and progress. It reflects our belief that respect, service, and freedom are values we all share, regardless of background or identity.

Maidstone Liberal Democrats are proud of this legacy. We continue to champion policies that support equality — in housing, education, public health, and community safety. Our goal is a borough where everyone is safe, valued, and free to be themselves — whether at school, at work, or in uniform.

Those trying to turn back the clock — to revive old prejudices or stoke division — will find no ally in Maidstone. We will continue to build a Borough that is welcoming, proud, and united.

We remember those whose service was once denied — and we stand with all those who continue to serve openly and with pride. We also support the work of Fighting With Pride (@fightingwpride), which campaigns for justice, recognition, and support for LGBT+ veterans affected by the pre-2000 ban.