Following the horrific mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, the London Assembly today unanimously agreed a motion calling on the Mayor to set out how he will fight homophobia, bigotry and extremism, and promote community cohesion in London. Members also welcomed the Mayor’s pledge to fight the rise in hate crime across the city.
The Assembly highlighted the record turnout and tremendous success of London LGBT Pride 2016, in showcasing London’s reputation as a city of tolerance and respect.
Tom Copley AM, who proposed the motion said:
“There is a common element to all such attacks as tragically occurred in Orlando - hate. Let’s be in no doubt that this attack was a terrorist hate crime against LGBT people who were singled out because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“London is a diverse, open and tolerant city. Through his attendance at the Soho vigil and London Pride, the Mayor has sent a clear signal that homophobia has no place in our capital. We’d now welcome the Mayor setting out precise actions for how he will rid our city of hate crimes of any kind, and bring our diverse communities together.”
The full text of the Motion is:
This Assembly expresses its deepest condolences to the people of Orlando following the horrific mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub.
We recognise this was a terrorist hate crime against LGBT people who were targeted because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
We thank the Mayor for his attendance at the vigil in Soho and call on him to set out the action he will be taking to fight homophobia, bigotry and extremism, and to promote community cohesion in London.
Further, this Assembly notes the record turnout and tremendous success of London LGBT Pride 2016 in showcasing London as a city of tolerance and respect; and commends the Mayor for his ongoing commitment to tackling all forms of hate crime directed at any person, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or race. As such, we welcome the Mayor’s pledge to fight the rise in hate crime across our city.
Notes to editors
- Watch the full webcast.
- The motion was agreed unanimously.
- Tom Copley AM, who proposed the motion, is available for interviews. Please see contact details below.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For media enquiries, please contact Ben Walker on 020 7983 5769. For out of hours media enquiries, call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the London Assembly duty press officer. Non-media enquiries should be directed to the Public Liaison Unit on 020 7983 4100.