On World Suicide Prevention Day (Monday 10th September), Gay Times Magazine have created ‘The Flag We Shouldn’t Be Proud Of’ which will be raised at Birmingham’s iconic landmark, Town Hall.
This ceremonial version of the iconic pride flag has 2 of the 6 stripes removed in order to represent the 2 in 6 LGBTQ young people we risk losing to suicide due to issues including bullying, discrimination, gender identity and mental health. This powerful statement is made all the more poignant because the lost red and blue stripes traditionally symbolise ‘Life’ and ‘Harmony’.
Comedian Joe Lycett, who performs at Symphony Hall this November, said: “I’m really excited about performing at Birmingham Symphony Hall, but even more so now knowing that they are supporting such an important cause. Suicide and mental health issues are massive problems in the LGBTQ+ community and I’m delighted THSH are helping to highlight this.”
Collabro’s Jamie Lambert, who will perform at Symphony Hall in April 2019, said: “The reason why this project is important is because there’s such a high level of suicide particularly in young people in the LGBT community and it’s really important that we step up and look after our own and make sure that we address that issue. Not just within the community but in the wider world as well. I’m really proud to support it.”
Richard Loftus, Director of Sales & Marketing for Town Hall Symphony Hall said: “This year marks the 40th anniversary of the original pride flag. ‘The Flag We Shouldn’t Be Proud Of’ will remind passersby how far we have come but also the work we have ahead of us to keep the LGBTQ community safe and well.”
John Osborne and Rickie Marsden, advertising creatives from The Gate London, initiated the project: “Despite this being an issue close to our hearts, we didn’t realise the scale of the problem. We felt like we had to help put a spotlight on it and start the conversation in a simple yet powerful way.”
