Gay Today: World

Britain's Queen Honors Lesbian,
Gay, & AIDS Causes

Compiled By GayToday

A lesbian mother and an openly gay man were among those recognized over the weekend in the Queen's Birthday Honours List. Angela Mason, Executive Director of the gay rights group, Stonewall, and Nick Partridge, Chief Executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust were both awarded the OBE - Angela Mason for services to the lesbian and gay community, and Nick Partridge for services for people affected by HIV and AIDS.

Angela Mason, a qualified solicitor, lives in North London with her partner of 28 years, Elizabeth Wilson, and their 14-year-old daughter. She was appointed as Stonewall's Executive Director in 1992. She has since been involved in many high profile legal cases - most notably attempting to equalize the age of gay consent and to lift the ban on lesbians and gays in the armed forces. She is currently spearheading the campaign to repeal Section 28 of the Local Government Act.

Angela Mason said: "I do feel very honored. It is a recognition that lesbians and gay men are part of society and that our claim for equality has to be addressed.

It's also a tribute to the hard work of the many people that have helped Stonewall and the very many lesbian and gay groups who have fought so hard for human rights. We still have a long way to go but this recognition of our cause is very welcome.

John Miskelly, Chair of Stonewall, said: "Here is a person who has devoted her life to the struggle for lesbian and gay equality. She has won a reputation for the tenacity of her lobbying and the simple and respectful logic of her argument. Angela is an inspiration to everyone associated with Stonewall and is highly respected by all those who work with her.

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"The honoring of a high-profile lesbian mother is a symbol that lesbians and gay men are now welcomed into mainstream society. It is an official recognition of Angela's work, however that work is far from finished. The campaign for full equality is strengthened but the fight goes on, with greater momentum and vigor."