Scottish First Minister Shares Personal Experiences While Addressing LGBTQ+ Event
Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s first Muslim First Minister, has shared how coming from a minority background provides a unique and valuable perspective, especially in light of the UK Government’s recent actions to limit rights. Yousaf made these remarks while addressing an event organised by the LGBTQ+ wing of the Scottish National Party (SNP), Out For Independence, in Glasgow.
Yousaf emphasised that his personal experiences as a minority have shaped his approach to leadership. He remarked that, regardless of Scotland’s independence, he remains committed to making the country more equal and just. He also voiced his concern about the UK Government’s stance on rights, stating, “in the face of a Westminster Government that seems determined not to advance rights, but to roll back on them, independence is now more important than ever.”
The First Minister highlighted his government’s intention to challenge the UK Government’s blocking of gender recognition reforms through a legal challenge, after the use of Section 35 of the Scotland Act. This legal move represents a growing divide over devolved powers and policies on minority rights.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Yousaf shared how he was often judged by his appearance and ethnicity. He recalled his experiences of being stopped and searched by police during his youth and expressed how this form of discrimination shaped his views. His comments followed a landmark admission by Police Scotland Chief Constable, Sir Iain Livingstone, who described the force as “institutionally racist.”
Yousaf stressed that while everyone’s experience is unique, being part of a minority group offers a critical viewpoint. He said, “I certainly know how it feels to be judged by people around you simply for what you are – or what you look like, and not for what you do. I have faced that my whole life.”
The SNP leader further acknowledged that these challenges had shaped him into the leader he is today. However, he also highlighted the positive impact of coming together to support minority rights, saying, “The fight for equality affects all of us.”
In closing, Yousaf called for unity in celebrating diversity, stressing that differences should be celebrated as part of what makes society rich and vibrant. “It’s about reminding us all that even if we’re a bit different from each other, those differences are tiny compared to the huge amount that we have in common,” he concluded.
