‘Straight out of Trumpland’: LGBTQ+ members fight for Pride after Essex library ban
Summary
After the Reform party took control of Essex county council, they banned Pride events in 74 libraries and restricted Pride flags on council buildings. LGBTQ+ community members and organizers have raised concerns about safety and loss of support as similar actions have been taken by other Reform-led councils in England.Key Facts
- Essex county council banned Pride events in its 74 libraries and limited public events focused on specific groups or themes.
- The council continues to provide LGBTQ+ books and displays in libraries but is reviewing events aimed at particular groups.
- Reform-led councils in Durham, Leicestershire, Kent, Sunderland, Gateshead, and South Tyneside have also restricted Pride flags and defunded Pride events.
- LGBTQ+ organizers reported losing visibility, funding, and allies after Reform gained control of councils.
- Some Pride events have moved away from council-owned land due to these restrictions and concerns about safety.
- Acts of vandalism, such as tearing down Pride promotional signs, have increased.
- Community members describe a change in the tone of Pride events, shifting from celebrations to rallies highlighting political issues.
- Some councils defend the changes by saying they will still support civic and cultural events and fly national flags only.
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