Vigil against Hate Crime
Trafalgar Square, London
Friday 30th October 8.00pm – 10.00pm
On Friday 25th September 2009, Ian Baynham, 62, and his friend were subjected to homophobic abuse in Trafalgar Square, London. When Ian challenged this unacceptable behaviour he was assaulted by three youths: two women and a man. He later died of his injuries on October 13th.
Ian is not alone; he is just one of thousands of people who have been victims of hate crime. The violent homophobic attack on trainee police officer James Parkes, 22, in Liverpool last Sunday night dramatically reinforces this fact. The organizers of the London Vigil have called upon people from all communities to join them on Friday 30th October to stand up and say that Hate Crime is unacceptable and that it will no longer be tolerated. The people of Liverpool are holding a similar Vigil on Sunday November 1st.
Homophobic crime in London has risen by nearly a fifth. According to the latest figures, 1,192 homophobic offences were reported in the year to September, up from 1008 the previous year – a rise of 18.3%. These figures are reflected in many other parts of the UK.
The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement fully supports the aims of these Vigils and the goal of the eradication of homophobic hate crime – and all hate crimes.
Rev. Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive, said: “We are alarmed at the sharp rise in homophobic crime and support these efforts to turn the situation around. We don’t know the motivations for these particular attacks but note with sadness that the message conveyed by too many Christians is one of non-acceptance, if not outright hostility, towards gay people. Such attitudes fuel the bigotry and hatred we see demonstrated in these violent crimes. LGCM continues in its work to challenge homophobia in and beyond the churches. We happily offer our full support to those who have organized these vigils. And we offer our prayers for all those affected by such hate crime.”
Further details about the event can be found here.
ENDS
For more information, please contact Tony Green on 07909 022950
