SIR – As a local resident who identifies as LGBT, I am delighted that Worcester will host its first LGBT Pride event next year. However, I am disheartened by responses from some other residents, who clearly misunderstand the purpose of the event. LGBT Pride is not about “trumpeting our differences”. LGBT Pride is about: l Commemorating the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a turning point when gay people fought back against government-sponsored persecution.
l Remembering LGBT people who died in homophobic attacks. My partner recalls having to evade “gay bashing” as a sport.
l Remembering LGBT people in other countries less fortunate than we are in Britain. In some, being LGBT is punishable by imprisonment or even execution.
l Celebrating progress the gay rights movement has made, including being able to contribute toward community causes.
l Meeting other LGBT people in a safe environment.
l Offering help and advice to people who are struggling with their sexuality, because we’re still not always safe. The upsetting comments on this newspaper’s web forum demonstrate this.
Anybody who supports equal rights is welcome at Worcester Pride. I am looking forward to it
V Smith
Worcester
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel