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By Rebecca Stewart, Trends Editor

December 23, 2019 | 3 min read

Some of Britain's most recognisable LGBTQ+ creatives, musicians, designers and activists have come together to film an alternative to the Queen's speech this Christmas.

Non-binary Grammy-winner Sam Smith, trans activist and model Munroe Bergdorf and British fashion designer Gareth Pugh are all featured in Dazed's version of the 'Qweens' Speech', which premiered on Monday (23 December).

Developed by creative agency Acne, the film reflects on the key milestones made for the LGBTQ+ rights in 2019 and highlights the changes that still need to be made in 2020 to support further inclusivity.

Gareth Pugh, who has dressed Beyoncé, Rihanna and Lady Gaga, champions equal marriage in the film, underscoring Northern Ireland's decision to legalise same-sex marriage from 2020 onwards.

Singer Smith, meanwhile, celebrates "all queer bodies" in whatever form they take and salutes though who as "redefining the rules so there is space for those whose identity cannot be defined by the confines of he or she."

Bergdorf, who was recently profiled in The Drum magazine, is shown saying: “Britain. What a year it’s been. And what a decade. We’ve come so far. Fought so fiercely and reshaped the world to include us in it. Breaking down stale traditions and crafting a tomorrow that is fairer and safer for all.”

Crystal Rasmussen, Rina Sawayama, Kate Moross, Kai-Isaiah Jamal and Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, also feature in the campaign.

The film was directed by duo Zhang + Knight, who were inspired by Cecil Beaton’s portraits of Princess Margaret in creating the work.

"They have this decadent dusty pastel romanticism to them and we wanted to create a regal environment world which felt luxurious but also held onto the rebellious spirit of the "LGBTQ+ community," said the directors.

Executive creative director, Adam Springfeldt, at Acne said: “Diversity should be celebrated in all forms but the fact remains that there is still more to do to support LGBTQ+ rights in our homes, our communities and society as a whole.

"Collaborating with this talented group of artists has created a film which we hope will inspire more people to share this message at a time of hope, love and goodwill.”

Dazed won't be the only media outlet to air an alternative to Queen Elizabeth II's festive speech this year. Every year since 1993, Channel 4 has broadcast its own Christmas message at the same time as the royal statement is shown on BBC One.

Last year, the broadcaster enlisted actor Danny Dyer to deliver its 2018 message, in which he covered Westminster and Donald Trump.

The year prior, five children who survived the Grenfell Tower disaster sent out a moving message, urging other families to love and respect each other, and calling for everyone to be given a home.

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