Remembering Lord Terence Etherton: A Champion of Justice for LGBTQ Veterans

LGBTQ military mourns Lord Etherton, a key LGBTQ rights advocate in UK justice. His Etherton Report addressed LGBTQ veterans' past injustices, leading to PM Sunak's apology. His legacy of justice impacted many who served.

Honoring a Legacy

The LGBTQ military community is in mourning today following the passing of Lord Terence Etherton, who died at the age of 73, Attitude Magazine reports. Known for his commitment to justice, Lord Etherton’s contributions greatly impacted the lives of countless individuals who served in the UK armed forces. His legacy as the first openly gay master of the rolls highlights his monumental achievements in bolstering LGBTQ rights in the judicial system.

The Groundbreaking Etherton Report

One of Lord Etherton’s most significant contributions was the etherton report, which examined the historical injustices faced by LGBTQ veterans due to a longstanding ban prohibiting their service in the armed forces, in effect from 1967 until January 2000. The report provided 49 specific recommendations aimed at repairing the relationships between the government and the LGBTQ community. These recommendations included calls for a formal apology from the Prime Minister, as well as financial reparations for those affected by the discriminatory policies.

A Journey Towards Justice

In July 2023, Lord Etherton’s review culminated in a historic moment when then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a formal apology in the House of Commons. Sunak acknowledged the «appalling failure of the British state» and expressed deep regret for the discrimination faced by LGBTQ service members. This apology marked a significant step toward reconciliation, a testament to Lord Etherton’s tireless advocacy and dedication to achieving justice for those who bravely served their country.