Ahead of Brighton & Hove Pride’s in-person return this weekend, Brighton & Hove Greens have called for an end to deportations of asylum seekers.
At the parade this weekend, which centres on Love, Protest, Unity, Brighton & Hove Greens will march alongside communities to protest the Government’s plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Greens say that the return of Pride is welcome – but a reminder that there is more work to be done on achieving LGBTQ+ equality.
Hannah Clare, Deputy Council Leader, said: “This Government’s treatment of refugees is appalling in so may ways. They have been applauded for their Homes for Ukraine scheme, which has seen hundreds of hosts kindly open their homes in our city.
“Yet there still remain families placed in unsecure hotel accommodation in Hove by the Home Office. In the last week we have heard stories of families being threatened by the accommodation provider, just for wanting to keep their family safe.
“As a city of sanctuary, we proudly welcome refugees to Brighton & Hove, ensuring they have a safe and warm welcome. Yet the treatment of refugees by our Government has never been worse.
“While we will be marching with joy to celebrate Pride’s return, we must remember that Pride is also a protest first and foremost. Greens will march in solidarity and protest against the Government’s deportation of LGBTQ+ refugees.”
Caroline Lucas, Green MP, added: “I’m thrilled to see Pride returning to Brighton & Hove. Pride is both a celebration and an opportunity to say loud and clear that LGBTQ+ rights matter.
“It serves as a reminder that – when our shameful Government is willing to deport LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to Rwanda, to face persecution in a country with a human rights record far worse than our own – Brighton will always be a city of sanctuary for those seeking safety.
“And it’s an opportunity to demand that we won’t rest until we’ve won equality for all”.