Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell has called on Stonewall to provide urgent clarification regarding reported engagement with US restaurant chain Chick-fil-A. In a letter to Stonewall CEO Simon Blake, Tatchell expressed “deep concern” over Chick-fil-A’s documented history of funding organisations that oppose LGBTQ+ rights and promote harmful practices, including conversion therapy.
The letter highlights what Tatchell calls “the potential risk” to Stonewall’s “mission and credibility”, given Chick-fil-A’s past financial support for anti-LGBTQ+ groups. Tatchell stresses the “importance of transparency and accountability”, urging Stonewall to “clarify its position and ensure its values remain uncompromised”.
Mr Tatchell said: “Given Chick-fil-A’s long history of funding organisations that oppose LGBTQ+ rights, this news is both deeply concerning and confusing for those of us who support Stonewall’s mission. Chick-fil-A’s past financial contributions to groups that promote anti-LGBTQ+ policies and even conversion therapy are well-documented.
“While efforts to engage with companies to encourage positive change can be valuable, the only acceptable outcome here would be for Chick-fil-A to cease funding all anti-LGBTQ+ hate groups, unequivocally and permanently.”
In his letter, Peter Tatchell seeks answers to three key questions:
- The nature of Stonewall’s engagement with Chick-fil-A.
- Assurances that Chick-fil-A has ceased funding organisations hostile to LGBTQ+ equality.
- Steps Stonewall will take to uphold its values and retain the trust of the LGBTQ+ community.
“Stonewall has been a vital champion for LGBTQ+ rights,” Tatchell added. “Its integrity must remain unimpeachable. Any association that risks legitimising organisations with harmful histories demands clear, urgent action.”
Peter Tatchell and the Peter Tatchell Foundation are now awaiting Stonewall’s response.
