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In a troubling development, the removal of numerous Pride flags ahead of Newry's annual Pride parade has been officially classified by police as a homophobic hate crime. Pride flags, universally recognised symbols of LGBTQ+ pride and diversity, represent equality, respect, and inclusion—values that are central to the community worldwide.
The sequence of events began with the first report of missing flags on Thursday, lining lamp posts in the Hill Street area. This was swiftly followed by a second incident occurring between Friday night and Saturday morning, where replacements for the initially stolen flags were removed again. Dundalk Outcomers, an LGBT+ support service, had generously donated 40 replacement flags, which were also taken down.
Despite these setbacks, Newry Pride organisers maintained their resilience. They issued a public appeal, urging local businesses to review any CCTV footage that might reveal the perpetrator(s).
"The flags were stolen again last night. We had loads up, so they were there a while whoever it was. We’ll get more, and we’ll get them back up again. They won’t dull our day,"
they stated defiantly on Saturday morning.
Sinn Fein MP Daire Hughes strongly condemned the removal of the Pride flags, characterising the act as intolerant and out of place in Newry. He expressed unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community:
"I condemn the removal of Pride flags in Newry. These flags represent equality, respect, and inclusion—values our city embraces. Pride is about visibility and respect, and that message will not be silenced. Sinn Féin stands firmly with the LGBTQ+ community. Newry is for everyone."
Members of Newry Pride echoed these sentiments. One organiser commented,
"This kind of hate only reinforces why Pride is necessary. We stand strong and unified, louder and prouder than ever."
Their determination was palpable in their plans to ensure the parade continued undeterred.
As the PSNI launched an appeal for witnesses and potential CCTV evidence, the Pride parade went ahead under challenging weather conditions. Spectators gathered enthusiastically to celebrate under the theme "Louder, Prouder, Together," reinforcing resilience and unity within the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community both locally and globally, highlighting the importance of continued advocacy for inclusivity and respect.