BBC star Hannah Jones has strongly criticized St Helens Council's decision to withdraw support for Pride events, accusing the local authority of abandoning the LGBTQ+ community. The actress, known for her role as Sasha in What It Feels Like For a Girl, said she was initially shocked but not surprised given the current political climate.
Council's Controversial Moves
Newly elected council leader George Woodward, representing the Reform party, has faced backlash for two key decisions: scrapping support for Refugee Week events and ordering a halt to all engagement with Pride activities. Library staff have also been instructed to remove Pride references. Woodward defended his actions, stating concerns over what he called harmful transgender ideology and a duty to protect children.
Community-Led Pride Event
Despite the council's withdrawal, a successful Pride event was held at the World of Glass venue, funded by community groups and donations without council involvement. Jones, who attended Rainford High School in St Helens, emphasized the importance of visibility and education.
Speaking to the ECHO, Jones said: “When I first saw that St Helens Council had withdrawn its support, I was completely shocked. But part of me thought, 'Of course this has happened' because of the climate we're living in. That shouldn't be something we simply accept.”
Broader Impact on Merseyside
Jones also reacted to news that Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service had withdrawn support from Pride events, following National Police Chiefs' Council guidance on operational impartiality. She described the moves as rainbow-washing and a betrayal of the community.
“Shame on Merseyside Police and every organisation that has withdrawn its support,” she said. “Liverpool has always been a city built on community, where people looked out for one another. I'd hate to see us lose that.”
Rising Transphobia in Schools
Jones highlighted increasing hostility toward LGBTQ+ young people, with friends working in schools reporting a rise in transphobia and homophobia. She warned that council decisions send a damaging message to queer children, reinforcing feelings of isolation.
“The biggest impact of decisions like this is the message they send to young people. It tells queer children that the institutions around them aren't willing to stand behind them,” she added.
A Call for Education and Unity
Jones stressed that a lack of education fuels fear and discrimination. She urged organisations to remain steadfast allies, especially in difficult times. Reflecting on her own journey, she encouraged LGBTQ+ youth to seek community beyond their immediate surroundings.
“If you grow up in a small town where you don't feel accepted, it can be hard to imagine there's another life out there. Finding community completely changed my life,” she said.
What It Feels Like For a Girl is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
