From rainbow to red cross: Sunderland City Hall’s flag switch causes controversy

The decision, confirmed just days before Pride month celebrations begin across the city, has triggered strong reaction from LGBTQ+ campaigners who say it risks undermining visibility and inclusion in Sunderland’s public spaces.

Councillor Ciera Hudspith, portfolio holder for culture, tourism and heritage at Sunderland City Council, said: “Any flag flown outside a governing body should represent our nation and our country as a whole, not a sectional interest.

“Time and time again on the doorstep, residents told us they were confused as to why England’s flag was not flying outside City Hall all year round.

“Today, it is an honour and a privilege to raise the flag of St George at the heart of our great city.”

The removal of the Pride flag came as a shock to many members of the LGBTQ+ community who regarded it as a symbol of “visibility, inclusion and a sense of belonging”.

Lynne Roxburgh, CEO of Sunderland LGBT+ Network, the largest LGBTQ+ group in the city, said: “For many LGBT+ people in Sunderland, the Pride flag has represented visibility, inclusion and a sense of belonging within our city.

"While some may see it as ‘just a flag’, for many in our community, it symbolised that LGBT+ people were recognised, respected and welcome in civic spaces.

“We know this decision will disappoint and upset many people, particularly older LGBT+ residents who remember times when visibility and acceptance were far less common, as well as younger people who look for reassurance that Sunderland is a safe and inclusive place to live.

“Sunderland LGBT+ Network has proudly supported the community since 2011 through Pride events, support groups, outreach, education and wellbeing services. Our work will continue regardless of any flag policy.

“At this stage, our focus is on supporting our community and listening to people’s feelings and concerns.

"We do believe visibility matters, and we would welcome positive dialogue around inclusion and representation in Sunderland moving forward.”

In the latest elections, Reform UK gained overall control of Sunderland City Council, ending 52 years of Labour control. It currently 58 seats on the 75-seat authority.

The city council has assured people it has “no problem with [Pride] events going ahead” but it wants to prioritise the running of essential services and will therefore not be funding any events in June.

Cllr Hudspith said: “During our election campaign, it became clear that the people of Sunderland care far more about their essential services being run efficiently than they do about taxpayers’ money being spent on what has become a politically contentious event.

“This decision is about priorities. At a time when council finances are under pressure, we believe taxpayers’ money is better directed towards the frontline services that residents rely on every day.”

Peter Darrant, CEO of Out North East, which organises Pride events in Sunderland, said: "While Pride was born from protest and the fight for the right to exist openly and equally, the Pride flag today is also a symbol of community, inclusion and belonging.

"For many LGBTQ+ people, seeing it displayed publicly is a sign that they are welcome, valued and supported.

“Removing the Pride flag from public buildings risks sending the opposite message at a time when visibility and solidarity still matter deeply to many people.”

The organisation has insisted Pride events will still go ahead, even without the council’s financial support.

Mr Darrant added: "Reform could have said, ‘we’re sticking with the Union Jack and St George’s flags because there’s so many flags out there, and we like to save money so can save some there’, but they didn’t. They singled out Pride.

"What about when they want to fly the flag for Poppy Day or for the Euros? What will happen then?”