- Conference
- 2021 National Young Members' Conference
- Date
- 12 August 2021
- Decision
- Carried as Amended
We are at a defining moment when it comes to climate change. Its impacts are global in scope and unparalleled. Climate change will affect every one of us on the planet, but its effects will not be the same for all.
Greta Thunberg’s school strikes and climate strikes supported by the Trade Union movement are seen as major reasons why the issue is still alive. There is a tendency to present the use and development of green technologies as a miracle solution. It is not just climate change that we are dealing with, but climate change in an unequal and unjust world. Without equality and equity, we cannot effectively fight climate change.
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Plus (LGBT+) community is fighting to gain equal rights, and for a just and fair society. In the same way, there is a community of environmentalists, activists and specialists fighting to combat climate change, much of which involves moving towards a just and fair society.
History tells us that diminishing resources are a driver for discrimination. Climate change is a catalyst that will enable those with resources and power to further marginalise any out groups that don’t conform. This is based on the findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Those already most vulnerable and marginalised will experience the greatest impacts. The IPCC identifies LGBT+ communities as a hidden victim of climate change, because of its social vulnerability.
The vulnerability of LGBT+ people to climate change is worsened by poverty and discrimination. It is often difficult for LGBT+ people to access services, particularly in countries which criminalise same sex relationships and where discrimination against trans people is widespread. Around the world LGBT+ people, especially young LGBT+ people, are vulnerable to homelessness as they are often forced to leave their homes due to conflict with the family, violence or abuse. The precarious economic and physical conditions of homeless persons can lead individuals to choose sex work so that they can meet their basic needs, often despite the risk of criminal prosecution. In climate related emergencies it is likely that young LGBT+ people will face discrimination in emergency provision such as shelters.
There is now a general recognition that you can hardly fight the most prominent environmental threat to humanity while ignoring issues of equality and social justice.
Climate change will affect everyone, and it may not seem helpful to some to divide the climate fight into smaller struggles. We cannot hope to provide a solution that works for everyone without recognising the specific impacts climate change will have on different communities.
Conference therefore calls on the National Young Member’s Committee to
A. Work to raise awareness of climate change amongst Young LGBT+ members and its impacts on marginalised communities;
B. Work with the International Section to raise wider awareness of the adverse effects of climate change on Young LGBT+ communities;
C. Encourage branch and regional groups and caucuses to consider action on climate change.