London Assembly calls on Mayor Sadiq Khan to set out plan to tackle anti-gay hate crime
The London Assembly has unanimously passed a motion calling on Mayor Sadiq Khan to set out a plan to fight prejudice against LGBT people and extremism across London.
The motion, proposed by London Assembly member Tom Copley, asks Mr Khan to set out a plan to tackle “homophobia, bigotry and extremism, and promote community cohesion in London.”
The Assembly Members also welcomed a pledge by the Mayor to fight the increase in hate crime across London and paid tribute to the 49 dead and 53 injured in a mass shooting hate attack on the Pulse club in Orlando last month.
It also noted the huge success of Pride in London this year, which saw thousands flood the streets, led by Mr Khan.
Tom Copley AM, who proposed the motion said: “There is a common element to all such attacks as tragically occurred in Orlando – hate. Let’s be in no doubt that this attack was a terrorist hate crime against LGBT people who were singled out because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“London is a diverse, open and tolerant city. Through his attendance at the Soho vigil and London Pride, the Mayor has sent a clear signal that homophobia has no place in our capital. We’d now welcome the Mayor setting out precise actions for how he will rid our city of hate crimes of any kind, and bring our diverse communities together.”
The motion reads: “This Assembly expresses its deepest condolences to the people of Orlando following the horrific mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub.
“We recognise this was a terrorist hate crime against LGBT people who were targeted because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“We thank the Mayor for his attendance at the vigil in Soho and call on him to set out the action he will be taking to fight homophobia, bigotry and extremism, and to promote community cohesion in London.
“Further, this Assembly notes the record turnout and tremendous success of London LGBT Pride 2016 in showcasing London as a city of tolerance and respect; and commends the Mayor for his ongoing commitment to tackling all forms of hate crime directed at any person, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or race. As such, we welcome the Mayor’s pledge to fight the rise in hate crime across our city.”
