The petition
We need your help
You may recall the story in February edition of the Woking News and Mail which talked about how Gay Surrey were not allowed a stand in the Peacocks centre, Mr Keeping, Centre Manager indicated that there was no room for compromise on the issue and felt the charity's presence was deemed inappropriate in a family shopping centre.
Some 8 months later we find ourselves back in the hot seat and declined space to promote "World Aids Day" as it was deemed inappropriate to have a presence in a shopping centre that is for families and children. Mr Keeping stated "I don't think the promotion of lesbian or gay activity is appropriate in this centre but I'm not saying it isn't appropriate elsewhere
As a community charity we are taking the relevant steps to prevent this kind of discrimination from happening again, remember we should now be protected under the Equality Act 2006.
Let’s not forget, Mr Keeping's recent statement as spokesperson for British Land PLC and the Peacocks Centre in the Woking News and Mail "I don't think the promotion of lesbian or gay activity is appropriate in this centre" cannot and should not be ignored as prejudice, homophobia and damaging to the good work the community support charity Gay Surrey is recognised for doing across the county.
Gay Surrey have reported this to:
1: The Equality and Human Rights Commission, Surrey asking them to investigate this further under the Equality Act 2006 which legislates against discrimination in the retail and goods sector on the grounds of sexual orientation.
2: Surrey Police This "Hate Incident" reference P3516712
Help us and sign the petition now
Thank You
Gino Meriano - Chair
Will Bartlett - Web Director
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