Seven individuals affiliated with the Just Stop Oil movement have been arrested while attempting to disrupt the annual Pride parade in central London. Social media images captured the moment police removed the demonstrators, who had briefly halted the march. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the arrests were made on grounds of public nuisance offences. Prior to the parade’s commencement, LGBTQ+ members of Just Stop Oil had urged Pride organizers to reject sponsorship from “high-polluting industries.”
The incident caused a delay of approximately 17 minutes as law enforcement officials addressed the protesters near Piccadilly Circus at the junction with Down Street. According to BBC Radio London’s Rob Oxley, the demonstrators occupied the path of the Coke float for roughly 20 minutes. Despite the interruption, the DJ on the float continued playing music, and the crowd cheered as the individuals were escorted away.
This action by Just Stop Oil follows their earlier warning to disrupt the parade if Pride continued to accept sponsorship from environmentally harmful industries. The LGBTQ+ members of the movement demanded that event organizers condemn the issuance of new licenses for oil, gas, and coal ventures. They expressed concern that such partnerships undermine the LGBTQ+ community, especially when various cultural institutions are severing ties with these detrimental sectors. The group emphasized that LGBTQ+ individuals are disproportionately affected by the adverse consequences of climate change, and action is urgently needed.
Will De’Athe-Morris, representing Pride in London, expressed his desire for the protest not to overshadow the parade’s core message. He stressed that Pride serves as both a protest and a celebration, with separate marches dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and supporting transgender individuals. De’Athe-Morris urged demonstrators not to detract from the significance of the event and encouraged them to find other avenues throughout the year to voice their concerns.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan acknowledged the significance of the Just Stop Oil movement as a pressure group, despite the disruption threats. However, he emphasised the importance of maintaining the integrity of the parade, which serves as a vital space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together, celebrate, and advocate for their rights.
