Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 9 September 2020

MATHEW HULBERT, a Barwell-based LGBT+ Rights Campaigner, has pledged to keep fighting for full equality after being praised for his work.

Hulbert received his certificate after being nominated in the ‘Creating A Sense of Community’ category as a part of the 2020 Hinckley and Bosworth ‘Making A Difference’ Awards.

Those nominated in the annual awards scheme were still recognised, but due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, an in-person awards ceremony wasn’t able to take place.

The annual awards recognise and celebrate the nominated volunteers who support the community and help to improve the quality of life for residents.

From 2014 until 2020, Hulbert was Trustee of the Leicester LGBT Centre. He then served as the Chair of the Centre from 2017 until he finished honouring his duties with the group earlier on this year.

Mathew helped launch and back the ‘True Colours’ LGBT+ events partnership in Hinckley and Bosworth.

The True Colours events run throughout the year and mark significant LGBT+ celebrations and commemorations, including LGBT History Month, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, Pride Month, Leicester Pride and Trans Day of Remembrance.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic disrupting the year, most events which were lined-up to take place have sadly been scrapped.

Whilst their events have been axed this year, True Colours are hoping that the events can take place again next year in 2021, although this depends on the Government-issued advice.

Hulbert also serves as the Independent Chair of the Leicestershire Police and Fire Service LGBT+ Independent Advisory Group.

In a statement regarding receiving recognition, Mathew Hulbert said: “I’m humbled and honoured to receive this recognition and thank those who nominated me. I also congratulate my fellow nominees.

“It’s fantastic that our borough celebrates its volunteers, who contribute so much to the life of our area.

“I very much enjoy volunteering as part of my campaigning for full rights, justice and equality for everyone in our LGBT+ communities.

“I accept this recognition on behalf of all of those I’ve had the honour of working with, both at the Leicester LGBT Centre and in the ‘True Colours’ partnership, as well as Leicestershire Police and Fire Services.

“It’s so good to see the increased level of LGBT+ visibility and advocacy locally and I’ll continue to work to see this increased yet further.

“Sadly there are still those who discriminate against people simply because of who they are or who they love.

“I’ll continue to stand against hate and to promote the full inclusion of all communities in the life of our borough and more widely.”