Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement by TUV Equality Spokesperson and Party Secretary Ann McClure:
“In the aftermath of Saturday’s Omagh Pride parade, TUV has been contacted by a number of Christians who were deeply offended by a photograph circulating on social media. The image shows a drag performer posing provocatively beside a text on the wall of Omagh Gospel Hall.
“For many years, it has rightly been recognised that parades in the vicinity of places of worship must be conducted with respect and sensitivity. This principle has been strictly applied to Loyal Order parades alike.
“The same standard must apply to pride parades. Yet what we see time and again is that pride events go out of their way to provoke a reaction from people of faith.
“What happened at Omagh Gospel Hall was a clear display of disrespect. It must be called out — not ignored or excused. The Parades Commission, which regularly imposes conditions on other parades when they pass churches or chapels, must take this matter seriously. I will be raising the issue directly with them and asking for an assurance that conditions will be imposed on pride events this summer in relation to conduct in the vacuity of places of worship to prevent similar offensive behaviour.
“While the pride movement claims to promote respect, compassion, and tolerance, the reality tells a different story. Pride is not so much about love and diversity as it is about the aggressive propagation of a moral and political agenda that many in Northern Ireland do not share.
“The photograph taken outside Omagh Gospel Hall underlines this fact. It is not a celebration — it is a statement of imposition.
“There must be respect for people of all faiths – including Christians.”