Working hard for Retford | Bassetlaw raises Rainbow Flag

Bassetlaw raises Rainbow Flag

Bassetlaw District Council have this year accepted a proposal to raise the Rainbow Flag to mark LGBT History Month.

In 2011 Councillor Campbell asked the council to fly the flag for LGBT History Month but it was rejected. The new administration in Bassetlaw have put Equality firmly on their agenda and have therefore accepted this years proposal.

Ian said he is grateful for the move, which he attributed to the change in leadership at the last district elections.

'The flag is targeted at celebrating LGBT History Month, it's a small step and the country still has a long way to go in making the gay community as equal as the straight majority, but Bassetlaw is certainly doing its bit'.

'as well as the flag the council have display boards in its public areas and DVD's will be shown in the two main libraries, we are trying to get the message out there that matter of equality in Bassetlaw is certainly back on the agenda'.

Ian added 'ever since I was elected and became Mayor of Retford I have been conted by many people struggling with their sexuality and with homophobia, they feel they have no one to talk to and by the council having the Rainbow Flag on its council buildings it is sending out a clear message that you are not alone and we are here for you'.

My thanks go to the Leader and Deputy Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Bassetlaw's Chief Executive and his team, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Retford, Nottinghamshire Police, Unison, the Worksop Guardian and the Retford Times, Trax Fm and the WOW Group.

The WOW (Worksop Out on Wednesday) Group provide weekly sessions to support young people aged 16-25 with their sexuality. For more information text WOW to 07977673167 or call 01909 479191 or visit www.centreplace.org.uk