THE LEADER of Harlow Labour has called Harlow Reform as “bigoted and ignorant” after they called for Pride events in the town to be “looked into”.

Cllr Griggs was one of the founder members of Harlow and West Essex Pride before leaving to concentrate on leading Harlow Labour.

Councillor James Griggs said: “It hasn’t taken long for Harlow Reform to show their colours and what a dark, miserable set of colours they have proved to be.

Their opposition to the Harvey Centre Pride event on 11th October ably demonstrates their bigotry and ignorance, a perfect reminder of why Pride was born in the first place.

Their claim that it isn’t suitable for children shows just how detached they are from reality.

If they think giving children and adults a safe and fun space to be who they are is a problem they should take a long hard look at themselves. Pride events are an opportunity for all communities, not just LGBTQ+, to come together in a show of love and tolerance, celebrating the rich diversity of our society.

The opportunity to explore your own personality in a safe environment is at the core of every principle of development. I know many people who were aware of their sexuality at a very early age.

“Do Reform seriously suggest people should remain repressed and stifled ‘in the closet’?
Until what age?

“Or do they think it’s never ok to be Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans or anything else other than their outdated stereotype of ‘the norm’?

This sort of outdated bigotry must be challenged and defeated at every turn, and it will be!

“And before they get into the ‘homosexuality is a lifestyle choice’ nonsense I’d invite them to answer me this. When did they decide to be straight?”