Barnsley Pride organisers 'disappointed' as Reform-led council refuse to fly flag on town hall
The announcement was made during this year’s Pride month
Organisers of an upcoming Pride celebration have reiterated that ‘inclusion matters’ after councillors announced they would no longer fly the Pride flag.
Barnsley Council revealed their decision on June 4, at the start of this year’s Pride month.
Historically, during this month the Pride flag has flown over the town hall, with other flags like that of Ukraine being raised at different times.
However, the newly-elected Reform leadership has said that only the Union Flag, St George’s Cross and Barnsley Council flags will now be flown moving forward.
Explaining the decision, Councillor William Brown, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “These three flags symbolise what unites us across Barnsley.”
The change has sparked criticism online, with organisers behind the upcoming Pride event in Barnsley, which is set to take place on July 25, saying that the flag helped people know they were “welcome, seen and valued.”
Pam, community engagement and outreach lead for Barnsley Pride, added: "I'm disappointed by this decision, not because of politics, but because inclusion matters.
“The Pride flag represented a visible message to many people that they were welcome, seen and valued in their community.
“I acknowledge the decision. I hope we can learn from the conversations it creates. And I hope we continue to grow towards a society where everyone feels they belong."
The area’s Labour party shared the statement on Facebook, with the comment “every word of this.”
“Barnsley Labour stands by our LGBT+ community. Today and always,” they added.
The local Liberal Democrats similarly shared their support, saying: “Flying the Pride flag is a simple yet powerful way to show that our town is welcoming, inclusive, and safe for everyone. Refusing to do so is a massive step backwards and a deeply disappointing, regressive decision.
“Given that it is one of the first decisions from the Reform group, it clearly highlights that their priorities are not to build, but to break and cause division.
“You shouldn't have to fight your own council to be seen and celebrated. The Barnsley Liberal Democrats stand squarely behind Barnsley Pride and our LGBTQ+ community, and we will keep working to ensure Barnsley remains a place where everyone can live with pride.”