By Caribbean News Global 
LONDON, England – The UK will host its first-ever global LGBT conference to tackle inequality around the world and urge countries to take action.
‘Safe To be Me: A Global Equality Conference’ will take place June 27-29, 2022, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the first official London Pride marches. The conference will take place in person and virtually, ensuring all can take part.
Minister for women and equalities, Liz Truss, alongside foreign secretary Dominic Raab, on Sunday, May 16, announced the global event, which will bring together elected officials, policymakers, and the international LGBT community including activists, experts, and civil society to protect and promote the rights of LGBT people around the world.
“I want everyone to be able to live their life free from prejudice, malice, or violence, regardless of their background or who they choose to love. People should be judged on the basis of their individual character and talents alone, and we want to ensure that this message is heard around the world.
“This conference will take aim at the prejudices LGBT people still face, and look at the collective action we can take to tackle those injustices alongside our international friends and partners,” said minister Truss.
Foreign secretary Raab, said: “The right to live life without fear and persecution are the bedrock of inclusive and open societies and the UK, as a force for good, will protect and promote these values at home and around the world.”
“As co-chair of the Equal Rights Coalition, we are already working with 41 countries to defend the rights of LGBT people. We are urging every country to make sure LGBT people can live free from the discrimination and violence that persists today.”
Conference chair Nick Herbert (Lord Herbert of South Downs) has also been appointed by the PM as the UK’s Special Envoy on LGBT rights to promote the conference and champion LGBT equality at home and abroad.
“He will promote the conference internationally and lead efforts to champion LGBT equality at home and abroad. He will also be working with the minister for women and equalities to coordinate a year of domestic action on LGBT issues, in the run-up to the global conference,” UK government said in a press release.
“With our immense soft power, and as a global force for good, the UK has an important role to play in leading international efforts to tackle the violence and discrimination against LGBT people which should have no place in the modern world. […]
“In the lead up to the Conference, there will be a series of virtual events, bringing together the UK’s key international partners with the first held on 18 May to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT).
“The 2021 IDAHOT+ Forum will be an important moment to discuss a range of important issues including LGBT inclusive healthcare and business advocacy. It will also be the beginning of a year-long partnership with Cyprus, our friend in Europe and the Commonwealth,” said, Lord Herbert of South Downs.
