279-year-old Mansion gets first Pride flag
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The City of London has announced that rainbow flags will fly over The Mansion House and the Central Criminal Court for the first time, over the week of London Pride.
Flags will be raised over the two landmarks from 2nd-8th July, to tie in with staff and elected members from the City of London corporation joining the Pride parade for the first time.
Other landmarks around the capital have shown the flag for some years, including the Cabinet Office since 2013.
The 950-year-old Corporation announced earlier this year that around 50 representatives from it’s LGBT+ staff would be joining Pride.
Alderman Tim Hailes, the first openly gay Sheriff of London, said “It is, undoubtedly, with a sense of pride that we are flying the rainbow flag over four historic City buildings during the Pride in London celebrations.
“By raising the flags and taking part in the parade on 7 July, the City of London Corporation is sending a clear and very visible message of support for London and the UK’s LGBT+ communities.”
(The Mansion House – image by City of London Corporation)
Speaking as representative for the Corporation, Edward Lord, Chair of the Establishment Committee, said “Pride matters. It is a hugely important event globally and I am delighted that we will see the rainbow Pride flag flying over iconic City landmarks.
“Together we are celebrating Pride In London and supporting the on-going fight for equality and inclusivity in this country and overseas.
“We are raising the flag to show our commitment to fairness and diversity and our support for the City Corporation’s LGBT+ employees and elected Members as well as LGBT+ communities in London and the UK.”
The Lord Mayor’s Parade, which the Corporation more usually participates in (Photo credit BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images)
The Central Criminal Court is an active court used for prosecutions, while The Mansion House is a historical Lord Mayor’s residence which is now used routinely for meetings and galas by government, charities and businesses. It is particularly used for international trade events and hosting foreign ministers.
Catherine McGuinness, Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, said “Flying the rainbow flag over iconic City landmarks reminds everyone of the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance in our society.
“We are celebrating the growing diversity in the Square Mile, while also standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those working in our communities to tackle prejudice.”
