Local politics just got spicy! Durham County Council pulled funding for Pride, citing a focus on “key services.” Now, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is speaking out, calling the move a ‘distraction.’ Is it about priorities, or something else entirely? Dive into the full story and decide for yourself!
A significant local controversy has erupted in County Durham following a decision by the Reform-run Durham County Council to withdraw financial support from the annual Durham Pride event, sparking widespread debate and drawing national political attention. This move, which diverts funds previously allocated to the vibrant celebration of the region’s LGBTQ+ community, has ignited discussions about local government priorities and the allocation of public resources.
Earlier this month, the council confirmed its intention to redirect up to £10,000, which had been invested in this year’s May 24th and 25th event, towards what it termed “key services.” This abrupt shift in policy marks a departure from previous years’ support, raising questions about the future sustainability of such community-focused initiatives under the new leadership, and specifically, regarding the impact of these council funding cuts.
Darren Grimes, the council’s deputy leader, unequivocally stated that the Durham Pride event “won’t be getting a single penny from [the] council next year,” cementing the decision and leaving organizers to seek alternative funding streams. The announcement has sent ripples through the local community, which had come to rely on the local government politics for backing the large-scale celebration.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, speaking to the press during a visit to Teesside Airport, swiftly responded to the funding cuts, framing the Reform UK party’s decisions on spending as a “distraction from what’s happening with our economy.” Her comments underscore a national political dimension to what began as a local council matter, highlighting broader ideological differences in governance.
Badenoch further emphasized that while the Pride event “can and will go ahead safely,” Durham County Council “isn’t an ATM for contested causes,” arguing that residents prioritize essential services such as “bins emptied, roads fixed, and services funded — not more council-sponsored politics in fancy dress.” This rhetoric positions the funding decision as a move away from perceived political posturing towards practical local governance.
Historically, councillors have financially supported Durham Pride through various budgets, and the previous investment had been part of a wider effort to enhance the region’s cultural offerings, particularly following its unsuccessful bid for City of Culture status. However, it is understood that the timing of recent elections played a role in making such traditional support unfeasible this year, complicating the financial landscape for the event.
In response to the council’s decision, Durham Pride has demonstrated remarkable resilience and community spirit by partnering with the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA) and the Trades Union Congress to launch a fundraising drive for future events. A significant fundraising event is scheduled for September 5th at Redhill’s, Durham Miners’ Hall, featuring former miners, politicians, and special guest Mike Jackson, a key figure from Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners, for an insightful panel discussion, ensuring the celebration of LGBTQ+ rights continues.
