‘Clearly homophobic’ move from some National Trust members slammed

The director of Bristol Pride has branded a proposal from a minority group of National Trust members that would see participation in Pride events banned as “clearly homophobic” and “deeply disappointing”.

Anti-LGBTQ+ members of the conservation charity are asking members to vote on a resolution calling for a ban on their involvement in “divisive” Pride events.

In their annual general meeting (AGM), voters will be asked whether they “deplore” the National Trust participating in the events as a “divisive and an unaccountable waste” of subscriptions.

Whilst the trust has almost six million members, resolutions for its AGM can be put forward with the support of 50 members. In this case, five members proposed the resolution which was supported by the required 45 members.

Meanwhile, Daryn Carter, director of Bristol Pride, said taking part in the celebration of LGBTQ+ rights is an opportunity to bring people together – and joins the trust’s board of trustees in urging members to vote against the motion.

“We should also remember that LGBT+ people have always existed and that LGBT+ people are part of the narrative of National Trust sites,” Carter told Bristol24/7 – photo: Matt Whiteley

He said: “It is deeply disappointing to see that those that seek division and prejudice have brought forward a motion to try and ban the National Trust from participating and supporting Pride events.

“We hope members will vote against this clearly homophobic motion which would see the trust unable to participate in parade marches and attend Pride events where they not only showcase their support to the LGBT+ community but also sign up new members.”

The National Trust’s board of trustees also called on its supporters to vote the motion down, saying it “runs counter to our ethos”.

A spokesperson said: “The National Trust was founded for the benefit of everyone. We serve the whole of our wonderfully diverse society and we want to do that to the very best of our ability.

“This includes supporting our staff, volunteers and visitors to take part in cultural celebrations including Pride, which they have been doing for many years.

“The AGM and resolutions process is a critical part of our governance and importantly, it allows our members to vote on issues that matter to them.

“This resolution does not align with our values and it runs counter to our ethos. We urge our members to vote against this resolution and to help us keep the culture of understanding and respect that we are dedicated to fostering at the National Trust.

“We fully support our staff, volunteers and visitors being able to take part in celebrations of LGBTQ+ society and history, including Pride.”

national Trust members you have until 28 Oct to vote *against* the proposal to ban involvement in Pride or LGBT+ action at trust sites (ie rainbow badges). We love having staff showcase support and celebrate with us National by joininf Parade & community area this would ban them https://t.co/WkieGKcOhs

— Bristol Pride (@BristolPride) September 5, 2022

Proposers wrote that the organisation’s participation in Birmingham Gay Pride event in 2019 was “an exercise in virtue signalling”, adding “it was unbecoming in a body which should be dedicated to preserving the nation’s heritage for all and being a faithful steward of its members’ subscriptions”.

Bristol24/7 understands that the Pride resolution is spearheaded by Stephen Green, a National Trust member and director of the far-right lobby group Christian Voice.

The National Trust looks after historical houses, castles, parks and gardens across the UK, including Tyntesfield, Leigh Woods, Blaise Hamlet, Dyrham Park (above) and Cadbury Camp in the South West- – photo: National Trust

Carter added: “It’s sad that the bigotry of some members is undermining the reputation of the National Trust and the good work that has been done. It must be so disheartening to existing and potential LGBT+ staff and members.

“We join the National Trust who have asked members to vote against the motion and urge any members to do just that, to ensure that the National Trust and our beloved heritage sites truly are open and welcoming to everyone.”

Main photo: Rob Browne

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