News / Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride billboard set alight in homophobic attack
A billboard advertising Bristol Pride has been set alight less than 24 hours after being erected in what event organisers “assume was a targeted action against our LGBT+ community”.
In a statement, Bristol Pride said they were “upset” to report what had happened but that “considered acts of hatred like this… only gives evidence as to why we need Pride and to show up supporting each other”.
Bristol Pride 2023 takes place from June 24 to July 9, with Pride Day on the Downs featuring Jake Shears and Natalie Imbruglia alongside 100 acts across five stages.
is needed now More than ever
In a statement following the attack on the billboard close to the arches on Cheltenham Road, Bristol Pride organisers said: “We are upset to announce that after less than 24 hours of being up, our 2023 billboard was set alight in what we can assume was a targeted action against our LGBT+ community.
“Considered acts of hatred like this are the reason why Pride remains a protest, as well as a celebration of visibility. It only gives evidence as to why we need Pride and to show up supporting each other.
“More than ever, we need allyship, we need to call out hate and prejudice, and remember that our freedoms must be protected, rather than taken complacently.
“This cowardly act follows a recent incident of homophobia in Bedminster, in which rainbow doormats were targeted and vandalised.
“We need your support, please get a supporter wristband if you can. We also still need volunteers to help support our community and Pride Day.
“But mostly we need you to show up on Pride Day, Sat 8 July, louder and prouder than ever and show that hate has no home in Bristol.”
Main photo: Bristol Pride
Read next:
- Bristol Pride is back to spread the love
- Headliner announced for Bristol Pride 2023
- In photos: Bristol Pride 2022
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