Ian McKellen joins march for LGBTQ+ equality in Commonwealth countries Ian McKellen participated in a London march protesting laws that criminalize LGBTQ+ individuals in 29 Commonwealth countries, many of which are remnants of British colonial rule. He called for these laws to be repealed, emphasizing that the demonstration is about justice and equality. The event aimed to bring attention to the issue, which McKellen noted is often absent from Commonwealth discussions.

• Ian McKellen joined a march in London protesting the criminalization of LGBTQ+ people in Commonwealth countries.
• Laws in 29 Commonwealth nations make same-sex relationships illegal, with six countries imposing life imprisonment and two having the death penalty.
• McKellen stated that these laws were introduced by Britain during its empire and have since been repealed in the UK.
• The demonstration, organized by the Peter Tatchell Foundation and the Out and Proud African LGBTI Network, protested outside several high commissions.
• Protesters called for King Charles to apologize for past monarchs’ actions and highlighted 75 years of homophobic persecution.
• McKellen expressed hope that the march would encourage the Commonwealth to discuss and address this issue, which is currently not on its agenda.