The LGBT community’s rights were ignored for years on end. We were pushed aside and emarginalised. We were second-class citizens. After the divorce debate, the PN government of the day decided that it would start to listen and proposed the introduction of civil unions. I must also point out that the PN government did flex its muscles when attacks were on the increase, against gay people.

But as mentioned, our rights were largely ignored. We do not want special status, we merely want to be treated as normal citizens. The PL government has now launched a consultative committee to study the issue and this is to be lauded and praised. But the government must not simply embark on a legislation campaign. We need to see a change in attitudes. We need to see that we are being treated like everyone else and enjoy our rights like everyone else.

Ralph Decelis

Swieqi