Self-proclaimed ‘friend of the gays’ Donald Trump faces protests on Scotland visit
‘Friend of the gays’ Donald Trump was heckled by gay people on a visit to Scotland – over his conflicting anti-LGBT stances.
The Republican Presidential hopeful visited Scotland last week to open a Trump-branded golf course.
Trump – who opposes transgender rights, would appoint justices to repeal equal marriage and opposes federal anti-discrimination protections – claimed in a speech after the massacre that he is a “real friend” of LGBT people, insisting a victory for Hillary Clinton would lead to the deaths of more gays.
He was shunned by Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on the visit, and also attracted a wave of protesters.
Two out protesters, Carlo and Andrew, were among those to attend and call Trump out.
Carlo explained: “More young people need to be encouraged to stand up to Trump. We are fed up with Trump’s racist, offensive and bigoted comments.
“We both identify as LGBT and its very rude that Trump is claiming to be ´ the friend of the LGBT community´.
“He is not our friend. Trump wants to reverse marriage equality and appoint conservative SCOTUS justices in America. Trump is dangerous!
“It’s important to fight back against racism and bigotry. The racist comments from people like Trump are creating dangerous environments across the Atlantic, and this racism is not welcome in Scotland.”
Local businesses near to the course have also erected large Mexican flags “to show solidarity with the Mexican people” against Mr Trump.
First Minister Sturgeon said it was “not a secret” that she did not agree with Trump ahead of the visit, warning: “Some of Donald Trump’s comments in the last couple of days, I think, should make everyone pause for serious thought.”
Ahead of the visit, Trump praised the UK’s decision to leave the EU, writing on Facebook: “The people of the United Kingdom have exercised the sacred right of all free people’s [sic].”
He added: “They have declared their independence from the European Union, and have voted to reassert control over their own politics, borders and economy.
“A Trump Administration pledges to strengthen our ties with a free and independent Britain, deepening our bonds in commerce, culture and mutual defense.
“The whole world is more peaceful and stable when our two countries – and our two peoples – are united together, as they will be under a Trump Administration.”
