Over 700 Stonewall supporters take to Brighton streets for Equality Walk
More than 700 supporters of the leading gay rights charity Stonewall, took to the streets of Brighton on Sunday for its eleventh annual equality Walk.
With over £55,000 raised, the fundraiser was part of the charity’s 25th anniversary celebrations.Money raised will be used to tackle homophobic language in schools across Britain.
Hosting the event were Radio 1Xtra DJ Adele Roberts, and John Whaite, of the Great British Bake Off. The walk included live entertainment and a picnic in the Royal Pavillion Gardens.
Also in attendance for the 10k walk were MPs Caroline Lucas and Simon Kirby, and the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, Denise Cobb.
Stonewall’s Director of Fundraising Catherine Bosworth said: “I can’t think of a more fantastic way for so many people to help celebrate our 25th anniversary. It was inspiring to be joined by individuals, teams and families whose hard work means we’ve raised a remarkable £55,000 to help tackle homophobic language in Britain’s schools.”
Prizes were given out at the end of the walk by the hosts.
Research conducted by Stonewall shows that 99 per cent of young people regularly hear phrases like ‘that’s so gay’ or ‘you’re so gay’ in school. These insults can have a devastating impact on lesbian, gay and bisexual young people’s self-esteem and confidence. Stonewall’s campaign, Gay: Let’s Get the Meaning Straight, is helping schools and young people tackle this abuse and put a stop to homophobic language. More information can be found at www.stonewall.org.uk/getoverit
