Nicola Sturgeon wins Politician of the Year at Scottish LGBTI awards
The Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has been named Politician of the Year at Scotland’s first ever LGBT awards ceremony.
Ms Sturgeon has consistently expressed her strong support for the LGBT community prior and following her landslide victory south of the border, she was quick to issue a warning to David Cameron over his plans to repeal the Human Rights Act.
On being honoured with the award, Ms Sturgeon said she was accepting it on behalf of all Members of the Scottish Parliament.
She paid tribute to all other nominees in the category, including, Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson, Patrick Harvie MSP, Margaret McCulloch MSP, Alex Neil MSP and Willie Rennie MSP.
Around 400 guests gathered this evening – including a number of politicians, journalists and community groups – at Glasgow’s Grand Central Hotel to celebrate the awards.
The awards aim to celebrate people and groups who have made an impact or contribution to LGBT life in Scotland.
The event is organised by the Equality Network, with PinkNews as a media sponsor.
The Scottish National Party politician condemned the plans during First Minister’s Questions at the Scottish Parliament – highlighting the progress in LGBT rights that have come about due to the law.
Ms Sturgeon saw off competition this evening from fellow MSPs including Ruth Davidson, Patrick Harvie and Willie Rennie.
The decisions made by Scotland’s politicians have a huge effect on the lives of LGBT Scots, from changes to the law and public policy, to leadership on public services and attitudes.
The awards featured performances by Horse McDonald and Pop Idol winner Michelle McManus.
Scott Cuthbertson, Development Coordinator for the Equality Network, said prior to the event: “We are very excited to be hosting the Equality Network’s inaugural Scottish LGBTI Awards.
“The past year has been an amazing year for LGBTI equality with the first same-sex marriages happening across Scotland after many years of campaigning,” he added.
“Progress on LGBTI equality and human rights would not be possible without the hard work and support of many people, groups and organisations from all over Scotland, it’s those people we are celebrating at these awards.”
“Our nominees represent the best advocates for equality and human rights in Scotland.”
