July 1st 2023.
Today, thousands gathered in London for the annual Pride March, celebrating all things LGBTQ+. But as the parade progressed, a group of LGBTQ+ supporters of Just Stop Oil blocked the parade in front of the Coca-Cola float.
Some sat in front of the vehicle whilst two others sprayed pink and black paint over the road. The Metropolitan Police have since confirmed that several activists were arrested.
The disruption was Just Stop Oil's response to London Pride's lack of response in issuing a statement condemning new oil, gas and coal. The organisation had been criticised for accepting sponsorship money from 'high polluting industries'.
At 1pm, a group of eco-activists set off marching from Parliament Square on their own Pride-themed slow march. Meanwhile, representatives from Just Stop Oil had met with London Pride to discuss their demands.
A Just Stop Oil spokesperson said: “Pride was born from protest. What would those who instigated the gay liberation movement, during the Stonewall riots in 1969, make of the corporatised spectacle Pride has now become? These partnerships embarrass the LGBTQ+ community, at a time when much of the cultural world is rejecting ties to these toxic industries. We call on Pride to remember the spirit in which it was founded and to respect the memory of all those who fought and died to secure the rights we now possess, whilst taking the necessary steps to protect our community long into the future.”
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