So So Gay
Peter Tatchell has been announced as the new patron of Sunderland Pride. The human rights campaigner and OutRage! co-founder has joined the team behind the celebration of LGBT community and culture in Wearside.
‘I am very honoured to be a patron of Sunderland Pride,’ said Tatchell. ‘Please give it your support. It is really important that we keep campaigning for LGBT dignity, respect and human rights – in Sunderland and worldwide.’
‘Don’t accept homophobia. Dream of a world without anti-LGBT prejudice and discrimination. Help us make homophobia history.’
‘Celebrate your love and sexuality – and the many LGBT rights we have won. But also remember that the battle for LGBT equality is not yet over. We won’t stop campaigning until we win full respect, acceptance, dignity and human rights.’
Chairman Arnie Tylor said: ‘It is fantastic that we have been able to attract such a high figure within the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered community as Peter. He continues to work hard to end discrimination in all walks of life, just as we as an organisation do within the Wearside area.’
Tatchell was allegedly threatened with a ban on speaking at London’s WorldPride 2012 earlier in the month by the Mayor’s Office. He has spoken at the event regularly since he helped found it in 1972.
This year’s Sunderland Pride, which was granted charity status this month, will be held on Sunday 23 September, and will feature artists including Newcastle soul singer Sam Dickinson, fellow award-winning local artist, Totally GaGa, newly-formed boy band Rewind, Jade Saunders as Jessie J and Steps tribute band, The Steps Experience.
Sunderland drag artist Miss Trixie and Lush Entertainment’s Le Freake and Ushwaki will also appear, with Westlife tribute band Envy on board to headline the event.
You can find out more about Sunderland Pride on the official website.
