Russell T Davies urges queer community to "revolt in terror and anger" against rising intolerance

Acclaimed screenwriter Russell T Davies has issued a powerful call to action, urging the LGBTQ+ community to mobilize and fight for their rights in the face of growing intolerance. In a recent article with Big Issue, Davies expressed deep concern over the current political climate, warning that hard-won rights are under threat.

"As we look down the barrel of a Reform government, we, the gay community, queer community, should be revolting in terror and anger and action," Davies stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He drew parallels to the activism of previous generations, particularly in light of the AIDS crisis, and called for a return to that spirit of resistance. "Pride [should be] as a protest more than a party."

Davies highlighted the alarming rise of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment, particularly in the United States, and cautioned against complacency. "They're out to get us," he warned, referring to political forces seeking to marginalize and erase queer identities. He stressed the need for vigilance and preparedness, urging younger generations to understand the battles fought by their predecessors and to be ready to defend their rights.

“I watch all these people and I’m thinking, I hope they’re prepared to fight, that younger generation that has no idea how they got there. And neither should they – they’re busy living their lives. I didn’t spend my youth looking back at World War Two. But I do think, are you prepared to fight? Because a fight is coming.”

Davies' upcoming Channel 4 project, "Tip Toe," is expected to explore these themes, depicting the frontlines of a culture war that has seen a resurgence of homophobia, transphobia, and prejudice. Described as "Queer as Folk crossed with Years and Years," the series promises to be a radical, savage, and hilarious examination of the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community today.