Durham County Council, now led by Reform UK, cuts Pride funding
– 1 min read
Durham County Council, now led by Reform UK, has announced it will withdraw all funding for the city’s annual Pride event, prompting strong reactions from LGBTQ+ advocates, trade unions, and community leaders.
Deputy Council Leader Darren Grimes, a gay man himself, confirmed the decision, stating that Durham Pride “won’t be getting a single penny from this council next year.” Grimes, who is himself a member of the LGBTQ+ community, argued that Pride has shifted from celebrating gay rights to promoting “gender ideology and political activism,” which he described as “contested causes”.
This year’s celebration honoured LGBTQ+ members of the British Armed Forces and featured a vibrant parade through Durham City. However, Reform UK has pledged to redirect funding to essential services such as road maintenance and waste collection.
Grimes’ comments, including references to Pride as “political street theatre” and criticism of the Pride flag as “migraine-inducing,” have been met with fierce opposition.
LGBTQ+ groups and allies argue that the move undermines the visibility and rights of marginalised communities.
In response, Durham Pride has partnered with the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA) and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to launch a fundraising campaign for future events. A major fundraiser is scheduled for 5 September at Redhill’s, Durham Miners’ Hall, featuring speakers including Mike Jackson, co-founder of Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners.
Stephen Guy, chair of the DMA, condemned the council’s decision, saying Reform councillors “underestimate the resolve of the LGBTQ+ community and the support of allies across the trade union movement.” Dave Pike of the TUC added, “While the Reform party promotes division, we stand for unity and respect for all people".
The controversy follows Reform’s earlier removal of the Pride flag from County Hall shortly after taking control of the council in May, further fuelling concerns about the party’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights.
