Organisers of Causeway Pride and Mams 4 Trans, key advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in Northern Ireland, have called for LGBTQ+ members within the five main political parties to consider leaving their respective parties or running as independents. This appeal, articulated in an open letter directed at the leaders of Sinn Féin, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Alliance, the Ulster Unionist Party, and the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), coincides with the announcement of a continued ban on Executive party participation in their upcoming 2026 Pride march.
The decision to exclude these parties was described as a serious measure rather than a symbolic protest. The organisers stated they were left with “no alternative” after what they perceive as a failure from the Executive parties to support LGBTQ+ rights adequately. Although the SDLP does not hold an Executive position, the group criticized their lack of substantial action regarding LGBTQ+ issues, arguing that silence on critical matters cannot go unchallenged.
In their communication, the organisers highlighted a troubling trend: LGBTQIA+ rights have been treated as negotiable, and significant progress has been stalled for political convenience. “Our communities have been consulted without outcomes, reassured without follow-through, and expected to remain patient while our rights were deprioritised,” the letter stated.
The organisers further outlined four “non-negotiable” demands for the political parties to meet in order to reverse the exclusion. These include the delivery of meaningful legislative and policy changes, specific time-bound commitments from party leadership, active opposition to harmful policies, and genuine engagement that results in measurable outcomes.
“Attendance at events, photo opportunities, rainbow branding, or social media statements do not meet this standard and will be treated as performative,” the letter asserted. The organisers are set to publicly evaluate the response of the parties by June 1, 2026, the beginning of Pride Month, and will record whether parties have engaged with their demands.
In a direct appeal to politicians and party members, the letter encouraged those who do not align with leadership views on LGBTQ+ issues to “stand up, speak out, and take meaningful action.” It emphasized that silence in the face of discrimination equates to complicity, urging members to consider breaking ranks if necessary to demonstrate true commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.
As the political landscape in Northern Ireland shifts with elections approaching in 2027, the organisers emphasised that LGBTQIA+ communities are prepared to withhold support from parties that fail to act. “Votes will be earned through delivery or lost through neglect,” they warned.
The organisers of Causeway Pride and Mams 4 Trans stated, “This position was forced, not chosen. Warnings were given. Patience was exhausted.” They reaffirmed their readiness to engage with any party willing to take the necessary steps to support LGBTQ+ rights, while asserting that the responsibility for resolving the current situation lies squarely with the Executive parties.
