Sussex Beacon unveils mural of Sir Elton John at St James’s St shop, in direct response to homophobic graffiti attack

Brighton-based charity the Sussex Beacon has unveiled a striking new mural of global icon Sir Elton John at the entrance of its St James’s Street shop, installed in direct response to the homophobic graffiti attack that targeted the site in September. The new artwork joins the shop’s existing mural of Freddie Mercury, creating a bold visual statement of pride, resilience and solidarity.

Sir Elton, one of the world’s most celebrated entertainers, has long been a leading voice for communities affected by HIV. Through his activism, philanthropy and advocacy, he continues to champion access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care while calling out rising homophobia, transphobia, and discriminatory laws worldwide.

Rachel Brett, Chief Executive of the Sussex Beacon, said “As we approach World AIDS Day on Monday, 1 December, this is an ideal moment to reaffirm our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and to those living with and affected by HIV. The vandalism at our St James’s Street shop only strengthened our resolve to expand the Sussex Beacon’s services. We remain fully committed to developing a dedicated hospice for LGBTQ+ people, while continuing to provide specialist HIV care.”

Ms Brett added “We hope the murals of Freddie Mercury and Sir Elton John, two icons renowned for standing against stigma and inequality, will inspire everyone who visits our shop and the wider community beyond.”

The Sussex Beacon is partially funded by the NHS, with additional support from trusts, foundations, fundraising events, and community donations. The charity is now calling for £1 million in additional support to complete essential capital works, to ensure its building is ready to house both a new LGBTQ+ hospice and an enhanced HIV clinical facility.