Call for rainbow flags to be flown in city
Proud Ness, to be held on October 6, has been overshadowed by controversy in recent weeks after a 600-name petition was submitted to Highland Council opposing the parade on “biblical, religious and moral grounds”.
In response, thousands of people signed counter petitions in support of the event.
The council confirmed this week it can go ahead and said the petitions did not have a bearing on the decision.
Jo Barr, marketing manager for Inverness e-commerce site Saucy Boutique, is calling on city businesses to display an LGBT rainbow flag in shop fronts or elsewhere as a symbol of support for Proud Ness and to demonstrate those opposing it were the minority.
“I love Inverness so the idea anyone would be made to feel unwelcome simply because of their sexuality was offensive and unacceptable and the sort of stereotypes which were being shared were totally inappropriate,” Mrs Barr said.
She felt it was vital for the city to make a public display so tourists and others were not put off visiting or doing business in the area.
She said the issue was about a society where everyone was welcome and treated with equal respect regardless of race, age, gender, status, wealth or religion or sexuality.
“So, to show our support and respect for the LGBT community in general and Proud Ness in particular we will be turning the Saucy Boutique website rainbow for the week of October 6 and I would urge other business to join in by displaying the rainbow flag where they can,” she said.
The petition opposing the march was organised by Donald Morrison, a home mission worker with the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing).
“It is quite inexcusable to hear Highland Council has given permission for this march to go ahead just as it is shameful on their part to approve and applaud sexual immorality being celebrated on the streets of Inverness,” he said.
“It is a sad day for the capital city of the Highlands.”
Proud Ness will start at 9.30am in Falcon Square and head across the river to Eden Court Theatre.
