A woman who unknowingly had a criminal record for 56 years for being a lesbian in the military is encouraging more women to apply to a government pardons scheme. Liz Stead, 78, was thrown out of the RAF in 1969 when bosses discovered a love letter from her then-girlfriend. More than 50 years later Liz discovered she was also given a criminal conviction for "perceived same-sex sexual activity" and had unknowingly lived with a criminal record for most of her adult life. She is one of 40 people in England and Wales who have had convictions of this nature overturned since 2023, when the government's Disregards and Pardons Scheme was expanded to include women for the first time. Liz, from Chichester, West Sussex, first learned of her criminal record in December last year, when applying for a different scheme, whichawards financial redress to veteranswho were sacked during a ban on homosexuality in the armed forces which was lifted in the year 2000. In emails seen by the BBC, her application for the payment was initially denied because of the conviction, and she was advised to apply for it to be pardoned by the Home Office. She applied to have the application fast-tracked due to ill health - and says she was "astonished" to learn of the charges. She now wonders what unknown impact it has had on her life. "I can think of one job where it might have been the reason I didn't get it. I've worked in local government most of my life and I have to wonder, had they known about this, would I have still had that job?," she said. In 2012, the government'sDisregards and Pardons schemewas launched to allow people historically convicted for consensual same-sex activities to have those convictions deleted from official records. The scheme was expanded in 2023 toinclude women and more former military personnelaffected by the pre-2000 ban on LGBT+ service members. Since the expansion, there have been 40 people given pardons, with the majority granted to former military personnel. Liz is now encouraging other women who may have been in contact with police, or those who were thrown out of the military for their sexuality toapply for pardonsin order to find out if they have an unknown conviction. She said: "I can't think how it is on my records and I've never known about it, but I can't be the only one, they can't have just pinpointed me. "I didn't know anything about it, so I had no idea what the pardon would even be for but I was told it was related to same-sex activity." Liz served for three and a half years in the RAF and had an exemplary record, but was thrown out when bosses investigated her then-girlfriend and found love letters between the two. She was interrogated by the Special Investigation Branch - the detective arm of the military police which at the time often focussed investigations on same-sex sexual activity - and dismissed. The partial decriminalisation of homosexuality began in the UK in 1967 with the passing of the Sexual Offences Act, which decriminalised homosexual acts between men over the age of 21 in England and Wales. In Scotland, the law was changed in 1980 and in Northern Ireland, 1982. However, homosexuality remained illegal in Britain's armed forces until the year 2000, when the European Court of Human Rightsruled the ban illegal. As part ofreparations made to LGBT Veterans, Liz was invited to a ceremony to return her medals and re-welcome her into the military family. Although the day was once a fond memory for her, she said it was now "tainted" because of the criminal record and she might have considered not attending had she known about that at the time. Peter Gibson, CEO of LGBT+ military charity Fighting With Pride, which helped Liz apply for the pardon, said: "Liz's experience shows how important it is that justice is properly done to all LGBT+ veterans who suffered under the cruel ban. Lives and careers were ruined under that 'gay ban'. "It's shocking that some people who served for their country and were kicked out for simply being their true selves might also have had a criminal record without even knowing." Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips said that criminal records for same-sex relationships "should never have existed in the first place." She added: "Each pardon represents real changes to real lives. Some could now have their military medals returned while others can finally walk taller knowing a painful injustice has been finally righted. "I urge anyone with convictions under these cruel and prejudiced laws to apply to our scheme. You deserve justice and we remain committed to righting these historical wrongs."
'I had a criminal record for 56 years for being a lesbian - nobody told me'
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Woman Discovers 56-Year Criminal Record Due to Sexual Orientation, Advocates for Pardon Scheme"
Bbc News
8.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Liz Stead, a 78-year-old woman from Chichester, West Sussex, has recently uncovered that she has lived with a criminal record for 56 years due to her sexual orientation. In 1969, while serving in the RAF, she was dismissed after military officials discovered love letters from her girlfriend. This incident not only led to her discharge but also resulted in a conviction for 'perceived same-sex sexual activity,' a fact that remained hidden from her until she applied for a government scheme aimed at redressing injustices faced by veterans dismissed under the ban on homosexuality, which was lifted in 2000. Stead's application was initially denied because of her criminal record, prompting her to seek a pardon from the Home Office. Upon learning about her conviction, she expressed astonishment and reflected on the potential impacts it may have had on her life and career, particularly in local government roles where such a record could have influenced hiring decisions.
Since the announcement of the Disregards and Pardons Scheme's expansion in 2023, which now includes women and more military personnel affected by the historic ban on LGBT+ service members, 40 individuals have received pardons. Liz is now advocating for other women who may have faced similar situations to apply for pardons, as many might be unaware of their criminal records. The scheme, originally launched in 2012 to allow the deletion of convictions for consensual same-sex activities, is seen as a crucial step towards justice for LGBT+ veterans. Peter Gibson, CEO of the charity Fighting With Pride, emphasized the need for justice for those who suffered under the ban, highlighting that many veterans were wrongfully dismissed and may have unknowingly carried criminal records. Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips echoed this sentiment, urging anyone affected to seek pardons and acknowledging the significance of rectifying these historical injustices. The impact of such pardons can be profound, enabling individuals like Liz to reclaim their dignity and recognition within the military community and society at large.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article sheds light on the longstanding issue of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, specifically focusing on Liz Stead's experience of having a criminal record for being a lesbian in the military. The narrative highlights systemic injustices and the repercussions that such historical discrimination has had on individuals' lives.
Purpose of Publication
This article aims to raise awareness about the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those affected by past military policies. By sharing Stead's story, the article encourages others in similar situations to come forward and apply for the government's pardons scheme, which now includes women for the first time. It seeks to promote the importance of acknowledging past wrongs and advocating for reparative justice.
Societal Perception
The article is likely intended to foster empathy and understanding within the community regarding the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ veterans. It highlights the emotional and psychological toll of living with a hidden criminal record and encourages a broader conversation about the need for societal acceptance and legal reform.
Potential Omissions
While the article focuses on Stead's story, there could be a broader context that remains unaddressed, such as the experiences of other marginalized groups or ongoing discrimination in various sectors. The narrative might not fully encapsulate the systemic nature of the issues at hand, which could lead to an incomplete understanding among readers.
Manipulative Elements
The article does not overtly manipulate facts but does frame the narrative in a way that emphasizes emotional appeal. By focusing on personal stories, it may evoke sympathy and encourage action, which can be seen as a persuasive technique rather than manipulation. However, the potential for bias exists if the article fails to present a balanced view of the ongoing issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Credibility Assessment
The article appears credible, drawing on actual events and personal testimony. The inclusion of specific details, such as the timeline of events and the government schemes involved, lends authenticity to the narrative. However, the framing may influence how readers perceive the broader implications of Stead's story.
Connections to Other News
In the context of recent discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and recognition, this article aligns with a larger movement advocating for equality and reparative justice. It may connect to other stories that highlight ongoing struggles for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the military and governmental sectors.
Impact on Society and Politics
The article could potentially influence public opinion, encouraging greater support for LGBTQ+ rights and policies aimed at rectifying historical injustices. If the narrative resonates widely, it may also lead to increased advocacy for further reforms in military policies and broader societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Support from Communities
This news piece is likely to resonate most with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, allies, and individuals who have faced discrimination. It may also attract support from those interested in veteran affairs and human rights, fostering a sense of solidarity among these communities.
Economic and Market Implications
While the article may not directly impact stock markets or specific industries, it can contribute to a broader cultural shift that influences consumer behavior and corporate policies regarding diversity and inclusion. Companies that align themselves with LGBTQ+ rights may see increased support, while those that do not may face backlash.
Global Power Dynamics
The story reflects ongoing global discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and the recognition of historical injustices, which are relevant to current geopolitical debates. In contrast to countries where LGBTQ+ rights are still severely restricted, this narrative underlines the progress made in some regions while also highlighting the need for continued advocacy.
Artificial Intelligence Influence
While it is unclear whether AI played a role in crafting this article, certain elements, such as structured narratives and emotional cues, could be indicative of AI-assisted writing. However, the human touch in personal storytelling suggests a more traditional journalism approach.
Overall, the article serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and advocates for a more inclusive recognition of their experiences. The credibility is bolstered by factual accounts and emotional resonance, making it a compelling read.