We, the undersigned, call on Staffordshire County Council to reverse any policy that prevents libraries and other council services from displaying materials that recognise and celebrate LGBTQ+ communities and other protected groups during awareness and heritage months.

Libraries are places of learning, inclusion, and representation. Their role is to reflect the diverse communities they serve, ensuring that everyone can see themselves represented and welcomed. Displays marking occasions such as LGBTQ+ History Month, Pride Month, Black History Month, Disability History Month, and other awareness events are not political statements. They are expressions of visibility, education, community engagement, and equality.

LGBTQ+ people are not an ideology. They are members of our communities, families, workplaces, schools, and public services. Recognising their existence and contributions is not political campaigning; it is a reflection of reality and a commitment to equal treatment.

Many residents are deeply concerned that restricting such displays risks creating a chilling effect on inclusion and representation. For LGBTQ+ people in particular, this raises concerns about a return to attitudes that sought to marginalise or silence discussion of LGBTQ+ lives and experiences. While Section 28 was repealed more than twenty years ago, policies that discourage visibility and representation can feel like a step backwards for equality and inclusion.

We therefore call on Staffordshire County Council to:

Reaffirm its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion for all residents.
Permit libraries and council services to continue recognising awareness and heritage months through appropriate displays and educational materials.
Consult with affected communities before implementing policies that impact representation and visibility.
Ensure that council policies comply with the spirit and principles of the Equality Act 2010.

Representation is not indoctrination. Visibility is not political campaigning. Inclusive public services should reflect and welcome every member of our community.

Staffordshire should be a county where everyone belongs, everyone is respected, and everyone can be seen.