THEGAYUK

Tag: Stonewall

All the latest breaking news on the charity Stonewall. Browse The THEGAYUK’s complete collection of features and commentary on Stonewall and the LGBT+ community.

  • Stonewall affirms its support of No Outsiders

    Stonewall affirms its support of No Outsiders

    The UK’s largest LGBT+ charity Stonewall says it is pleased that Parkfield Community School has reaffirmed its approached to LGBT+ acceptance.

    Stonewall UK, the UK’s largest LGBT+ charity has stood by Parkfield Community Primary and its “No Outsiders” campaign saying that it is vital that children “learn about and celebrate diversity at all ages”, but added that it was essential for the school to work with the parents and the wider community to resolved their concerns.

    The statement was released on the 6th March by Mo Wiltshire, the Director of Education for Stonewall.

    Today hundreds of parents protested outside the primary school in Birmingham and demanded that the “No Outsiders” classes be abolished and called for the resignation of its creator, Andrew Moffat.

    The school has been planning to deliver around five lessons to its pupils during the year.

    “This approach also teaches children the invaluable lesson of acceptance, reducing the likelihood of bullying in the long run”

    Wiltshire continued, “Schools that strive to create inclusive environments do so because they know the benefits this has for the whole school community. Not only do children feel able to talk about who they are and who their families are, but this approach also teaches children the invaluable lesson of acceptance, reducing the likelihood of bullying in the long run.

    “We work closely with many faith schools and faith communities around the country to help them deliver LGBT-inclusive education to children and young people.

    “We’re pleased Parkfield Community School has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all its pupils and we’re also pleased that it’s planning more conversations with parents and the wider community to resolve concerns, because the support of the community is essential in creating this inclusive approach.’

     

  • COMMENT | Pride Organiser on Primark’s Pride range: I do worry about the impact

    A partnership between an international clothing brand and a national LGBT charity could have a negative impact on local pride organisations.

    Clothing retailer Primark recently announced that it would be selling a new Pride range in selected stores throughout the UK with 20 percent of profits on certain items being donated to LGBT charity Stonewall.

    However, the decision has been met with criticism, including from Newcastle Pride organisers – who last week announced that they had to scale down aspects of their event due to lack of funding.

    “It is great that a big company like Primark wants to lend their support to the LGBT community but I do worry about the impact this will have on the community led organisations like ourselves up and down the country,” said Stephen Willis, festival director of Newcastle Pride.

    “Stonewall do an amazing job but they are a national organisation with a large presence, whereas local Prides are more often than not organised by volunteers with a lack of sponsorship and funding.

    “Many Prides rely on generating income from selling merchandise but if Primark are selling their own range at discount prices, this will direct much needed funds away from actual Prides, which are struggling as it is.”

    As part of the partnership, Primark have announced an array of rainbow branded products – including t-shirts featuring the names of cities the range will be sold in.

    “Considering Primark is tailoring the range to the cities they are selling them in, their support may have been better allocated by partnering with local organisations so they could help to sustain future Prides,” said Stephen.

    “Although the community has come a long way, LGBT people are still suffering from homophobia and hate crime and that is why hosting Pride parades remains important – to reinforce the message of equality and offer people a space they feel safe and accepted.”

    This year’s Newcastle Pride takes place 20 – 22 July, under a big top tent at Nuns Moor Park, with a huge musical line-up, including headlining performances from Alexandra Burke and S Club.

    As well as the acts on the main stage, on site will be a range of market stalls, a fun fair, the family and youth zone, the Steve Paske health zone, eight food stalls and five bars.

    The event is free to attend, but those wanting to support Newcastle Pride can do so by making a donation, buying merchandise or upgrading to Golden Circle or VIP tickets at www.northern-pride.com.

    For more information, visit Northern Pride’s website or search northernprideuk on Facebook or Twitter.

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • Primark and Stonewall slammed for Pride merch – that doesn’t support prides

    Today Primark announced it was releasing a brand new range of pride merch – with just 20 percent of the sale price going to Stonewall, but not to prides.

    Primark has teamed up with Stonewall to sell pride merch, with famous pride cities, like Madrid, Brighton and London emblazoned across the products – but none of the profits are supporting prides.

    The UK Pride Organisers Network has called out the scheme as disappointing for not supporting local prides, some of which are struggling financially.

     

    Stonewall, while attending many prides across the UK – except Pride In London this year, does not organise any pride events in the UK.

    In a statement the UK Pride Organisers Network said,

    “After being alerted by some members, the Network was disappointed to see that proceeds from Primark’s range of ‘Pride’ clothing and accessories, launched in time for Pride season, is not being donated to the Pride organisations that organise these events. Instead, it is being given to Stonewall who, whilst they attend some Prides, do not organise the events themselves.

    “All Pride organisations are voluntary bodies that struggle every year to raise the funds necessary to hold these major public events, most of which are free to attend. In the last week, in one city where Primark will be selling these products, the Pride has announced it is scaling back its event due to a lack of funds. This is a daily reality for most Pride organisers.

    “Stonewall have been critical of Prides in the past, and this is an insult to those Prides who sell their own merchandise to raise funds for their events. We urge everyone who wants to support their local Pride to do so by purchasing merchandise from them, or from stallholders at the event. And we call on Stonewall to work with us to reallocate the income they receive from this partnership so that it can be used to directly support Pride organisers who are driving the Pride movement for the good of all LGBT+ people across the UK.

    “Finally, given Primark’s history, we seek reassurances from Primark that the production of these items is not taking place in any country where homosexuality is illegal.

    “A full map of all UK Pride events can be found on our website at http://www.ukpon.lgbt/pridedates/  If you wish to make contact and support your local Pride, we are sure that any support would be most welcome.”

  • Stonewall’s boycott of Pride In London “not the right move”

    Stonewall’s decision to boycott Pride In London has been slammed by one prominent BAME activist as not in the interest of ethnic minorities.

    Yesterday, we reported that the UK’s largest LGBT+ charity, Stonewall, announced it was not going to march in this year’s parade, citing perceived issues with inclusivity and diversity. These are claims that Pride In London have strenuously denied.

    One prominent activist has slammed the move, saying that it was “not the right move” for Stonewall to be making and that it is not in the interest of ethnic minority groups and called for all parties to “work together” for better representation.

    Speaking to THEGAYUK.com, Edwin Sesange African LGBTI rights advocate said,

    “The issue of racism and unfair representation of some communities in the LGBTI community is unacceptable and many organisations have been accused of the above in the past.

    “Therefore  I am not sure whether the boycott is the right move or in the best interest of ethnic minority groups.

    “It is high time for all parties to work together towards a fairer representation.”

    Just eight percent of Stonewall’s workforce are from BAME backgrounds according to the charity’s own website.

    In 2011, according to the Office of National Statistics, around 14 percent of the UK’s population was from an ethnically diverse background.

  • Stonewall quits Pride in London to focus energies on UK Black Pride

    Britain’s largest LGBT charity will not take part in Pride In London and will instead devote resources to UK Black Pride.

    The UK’s largest LGBT+ Charity, Stonewall has decided it will not take part in Pride In London this year and will instead focus its energies on UK Black Pride instead, THEGAYUK.com has learned.

    The charity cited an issue with perceived failings with diversity, inclusion and representation of non-white communities, despite Pride In London not releasing any information on forthcoming events, 2018’s programme or activities that are planned surrounding this year’s event.

    Some of these concerns were highlighted by the Pride’s independent advisory board in 2017. In last year’s report, the CAB (community advisory board) suggested that future prides in the capital need to focus on the bisexual, BAME and other marginalised groups amongst other suggestions.

    The concerns were dismissed by Pride In London who issued a statement, at the time, to say, that the report was inaccurate, but that they would meet with the CAB to discuss their concerns.

    In a statement the Stonewall said,

    “We have also made the decision not to attend Pride in London this year.  We know this is an event that’s important to many in our communities and very much hope to attend in future years. However last year, Pride in London’s Community Advisory Board again raised concerns about the lack of diversity and inclusion at Pride in London – particularly of black and minority ethnic communities.  Pride in London rejected those concerns from the community in the strongest terms and, as yet, have failed to make any public acknowledgment [sic] that they may need to make significant changes if Pride in London is to be an event for everyone.

    “We continue to be very willing to support Pride in London on this journey and recognise that they are taking some steps to increase the diversity of Pride in London and the events around it. We’re looking to support Prides around Britain to create events that are as inclusive as possible of all LGBT people in their communities.  It is vital that organisations listen to those they represent and respond with an openness to improve and change.

    “We are excited to extend our support of UK Black Pride, have a strong presence at more community Pride events than ever, celebrate our diverse LGBT communities, and talk to thousands of LGBT people around Britain this summer.”

    “Stonewall always welcome”

    Today Pride In London, issued a statement to say,

    “We will always welcome Stonewall to march with pride in the Parade, and we
    hope to welcome their team at many community-driven events that will take
    place this year, during the Pride Festival.

    “Embracing diversity in all its forms, and supporting organisations like UK
    Black Pride, is absolutely at the heart of our mission as a team. Our
    volunteers work hard to put on an event that is for everyone. It brings our
    diverse community together and gives groups, individuals, and organisations
    the opportunity to show what pride means to them.

    “We are working closely with the Community Advisory Board and are dedicated
    to making Pride a success for all our communities – from those who have
    never been involved, to those who come back year-on-year, enabling them to
    celebrate, protest and march for equality.”

    UK Black Pride is an event which historically takes place in London over the same weekend as Pride In London.

    THEGAYUK.com reached out to Stonewall for comment.

  • Stonewall released a “Queer” T-Shirt and some people aren’t happy

    Stonewall’s iconic GET OVER IT T-shirt design has now got another product line to offer the LGBT+ community.

    “Some People Are Queer Get Over It” is now proudly displayed on one of Stonewall’s red (and black) t-shirts along with a whole host of other diverse gender and sexuality descriptions, but some people are not happy about the use of the word queer – particularly the older generations, some of whom find the term offensive.

    Despite some calling for the word to be reclaimed others aren’t so sure about the idea.

    Responding to a number of Tweets from Stonewall’s official account to advertise the T-shirts commentators decried the product calling it “vile” and a slur, while one commentator questioned whether Stonewall had consulted with the community before commissioning the T-shirt.

    Social media user David said,

    “How unfortunate that even Stonewall has swapped the word “gay” for “queer”. Yes, I know about the dubious reclaim theory but, for many older gay men, the word “queer” was a vile insult from childhood through teens, twenties and thirties. Sends a cold shiver down my spine.”

    https://twitter.com/L0QesUcTZ1R9Iu2/status/898888057038004224

    Whilst Gareth added,

    Reclamation’s a myth. Q***r will always be slur. It’s divisive and not inclusive, even within the LGBT community. Time to stop using it.

    https://twitter.com/GarethPhilips/status/898919641850023936

    Iconic

    However, some were very happy with the new t-shirt – calling the design “iconic”.

    In a recent survey by THEGAYUK.com, 60 percent said that the term queer was inappropriate as an umbrella term for LGBT people.

    The T-shirt is available from the Stonewall shop for £14.99

     

    THEGAYUK.com reached out to Stonewall for comment.

  • Piers Morgan condemns LGBT charity Stonewall as bigoted and “Piers-phobic”

    Piers has hit back at the UK’s largest LGBT charity, Stonewall after a spokesperson condemned his interview of a non-binary couple as “deeply damaging and offensive”.

    non-binary couple interview with Piers Morgan

    This morning, Piers interviewed non-binary couple Fox and Owl, who were using the opportunity to explain gender identities to Piers Morgan on ITV’s Good Morning Britain. However, the interview was slammed by many watching the programme for Piers’ approach to the subject.

    Stonewall was asked to comment on the interview.

    Speaking to PinkNews a spokesperson for Stonewall, said that Mr Morgan was ““deeply damaging and offensive”.

    The charity added,

    “No-one has the right to deny another person’s gender identity, and to mock them for trying to live an authentic life is a form of bullying and completely unacceptable.”

    It didn’t take long for Mr Morgan to take a swipe at the charity. He criticised Stonewall, calling them bigoted and “Piers-phobic” after they accused him of bullying on screen.

    During the show, after both Fox and Owl explained their identity and how they define themselves, Piers had a problem with understanding and asked,

    “I’m happy to be persuaded if it makes logical sense – but if you can identify as anything, where does it end?

    “Is anything fine? Can I be an elephant? Can I now go to London Zoo and demand to be put in the elephant enclosure?”

    The interview then turned to the subject of non-binary prisons and where, if Fox or Owl were to break the law, they should be incarcerated. Owl told Piers that a women’s prison would be preferable to the men’s. Piers responded that gender was fine “if it’s convenient”.

    Commenting on the online discussion surrounding the appearance of Fox and Owl on ITV, Stonewall CEO Ruth Hunt tweeted,

    https://twitter.com/ruth_hunt/status/864755896831938561

     

  • People are being triggered by Rainbow Laces which are trying to eradicate homophobia in sports

    People are being triggered by Rainbow Laces which are trying to eradicate homophobia in sports

    Highlighting the problems of homophobia in sport has never been so clear, as today the Premier League used Rainbow Laces to show solidarity with the LGBT+ community – making some people very very very angry.

    Rainbow laces
    CREDIT: TheGayUK

    A number of football clubs have decided to use rainbow laces to shed light on homophobia in sports. It is a Stonewall and Premier League collaboration and it’s seemingly triggered some fans spectacularly. Homophobic fans have been showing off their inability to be accepting left, right and centre.

    One of the worst threads on social media was from Manchester United’s Twitter and Facebook feeds. The club, which is supporting the campaign, tweeted that they were proud to show their support of the rainbow laces campaign and said that sport was for everyone.

    They also changed their Facebook profile picture to include the rainbow laces and it made over 8,600 people use the angry emoji. Thankfully 177,000 people managed to find their “like” button.

    Some fans on Twitter and Facebook were having none of it with at least one suggesting that all gay should be killed.

    screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-46-57 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-46-47 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-46-39 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-45-46 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-45-41 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-45-30 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-44-35 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-43-36 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-42-20 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-41-38 screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-13-38-44

     

     

     

  • Gok Wan | Tackle homophobic bullying in the playground

    Gok Wan | Tackle homophobic bullying in the playground

    Designer, cook and TV presenter Gok Wan has spoken out in support of LGBT young people, ahead of his keynote speech this Friday 8 July in London at lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality Stonewall’s Education for All Conference.

    CREDIT: Rixie / BigStock
    CREDIT: Rixie / BigStock

     

    Gok Wan said,

    “It’s so important for all of us to do everything we can to help prevent and tackle prejudice and discrimination – and we know that this sort of behaviour starts in the playground. Bullying is never acceptable, but making people feel threatened and alienated because of who they are and what makes them different is heart breaking.

    “We need to teach young people that this is not the way to behave and encourage them and in fact all people to understand that what’s ‘banter’ to some can be deeply hurtful to others. For us to get this right in schools, it’s vital that we recognise the role that teachers have to play, and ensure that they have adequate training to deal with this as it arises.

    “Stonewall is doing just that – which is why I am a proud supporter of the work it does. Whether you’re LGBT or not, we all have a role to play in standing up against hate, which recent events have taught us now more than ever before”.

    Stonewall’s annual Education for All conference, kindly supported by Prudential, is Britain’s leading event on preventing and tackling homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying among young people.

    It brings together hundreds of education professionals through a series of panel discussions and interactive workshop as well as a dedicated youth stream for 150 young people.

    Yvette Cooper MP, mental health campaigner Johnny Benjamin, Muslim drag queen Asifa Lahore, trans activist Fox Fisher, Maria Munir, Juno Roche and Leo Waddell (from documentary I Am Leo) are amongst other speakers at the conference this year.

  • Stonewall Cancels All Future Awards

    Britain’s biggest LGBT charity Stonewall has said that it will no longer be holding its annual awards.

    Stonewall, Britain’s biggest LGBT charity has said that it plans to cancel its annual awards after 10 years of the ceremony. The £240 per ticket awards which have courted controversy over the decade, most notably with its bigot of the year award, are bowing out with Sir Ian McKellen hosting the final ceremony.

    Ruth Hunt, Stonewall’s Chief Exec spoke about the decision to step back saying,

    “Ten years ago, a peck on the lips between two men on TV would have caused uproar, and books featuring lesbian characters rarely made the best-seller list. And this was one of the only award ceremonies to celebrate the achievements of the lesbian, gay and bi community. That simply isn’t the case today, and ceremonies and awards that recognise the success and diversity of our wonderful community have blossomed.

    “We have therefore decided that now is the time for us to step back, making this year’s awards the final Stonewall Awards.”

    Tickets for the event have increased from £155 + VAT in 2012 to £198 + VAT in 2015. Guests will be treated to a champagne and canapé reception on the 5th November in the magnificent Raphael Gallery of the Victoria & Albert Museum.

    Judging this year’s competition are past presenter of the awards, Gok Wan, Bethany Black, Lord Browne, Sandi Toksvig, who is due to take over from Stephen Fry on QI, Russell T Davies and Kevin Jenkins.

  • Proof That Jeremy Clarkson Is A FUDGE PACKER

    Well well, this is a turn up for the books, Jeremy Clarkson is apparently Fudge Packer.

    (more…)