But what exactly are these companies and public bodies supporting? The movement has it’s roots in a celebration, solidarity and political protest following the Stonewall riots fifty years ago. We want to see everyone treated fairly and no-one bullied or diminished because of their sexual orientation. However many people do have serious theological and ideological questions about some of the policies being pursued behind the equality sound bites which often go unchallenged — the impact of redefining marriage and the meaning of male and female for society for generations to come. As more and more organisations capitalise on this event, much like they use Christian festivals as a marketing opportunity, how can we respond well to the rainbow flag and yet create space to ask some important questions?
Think Friday: Pride
Pride has gone from a single march to a week and now a month of events. Every year more and more public bodies and international corporations are signalling their support.
About David Smyth
David Smyth is head of Northern Ireland and coordinates the Public Leader: Northern Ireland course. He is a former solicitor and represents the Evangelical Alliance on a range of government, civic and charitable forums. He serves in the space where faith, law, politics and culture intersect.