READING Pride has released a statement regarding calls for boycotts of the event amid criticism of its sponsorship by Doritos.
It comes in the wake of Iota Events, which was set to host a stage at Pride in August, resigning its support after Double Okay raised concerns over the event’s sponsors.
Double Okay contacted Reading Pride back in June, citing the support of and investment in Israel by PepsiCo, which owns Doritos, one of this year’s sponsors.
Double Okay cited these concerns in an email to Reading Pride, urging the committee to drop the sponsorship.
It also follows the pulling out of Josh Tenor, who cited sponsorship as well as personal reasons, for his departure from the event.
The statement from Reading Pride reads: “For over two decades, Reading Pride has championed diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
“As one of the largest free Pride festivals in the country, we provide an accessible space for LGBTQ+ equality, made possible by the dedication of our volunteers and the support of our sponsors.”
It explains: “In 2015, we established MyUmbrella to highlight the broader diversity of sexuality and gender identity.
“From hosting Transgender Day of Remembrance vigils to protesting Chick-fil-A and partnering with Reading Caribbean Carnival, we have a long history of advocating for human rights.
“We are now evolving our activities and developing a new Equality and Diversity Strategy to extend our community reach.
“We acknowledge that more work is needed to become a fully intersectional organisation.”
It continues: “Our commitment remains steadfast: to amplify the voices of those oppressed for their identity and uphold our social responsibility.
“With 12 countries still enforcing the death penalty for LGBTQ+ people and nearly 80 criminalising our identities, Reading Pride stands resolutely against war, discrimination, and injustice.
“We will continue to raise our voices against hate and inequality until Love Unites us all.”
Reading Pride parade and Love Unites Festival are set to take place on Saturday, August 31.
