Homelessness Charity Centrepoint Distances Itself from Sharon Osbourne
Homelessness charity Centrepoint has reportedly severed ties with television personality Sharon Osbourne following her announcement that she plans to attend an anti-immigration demonstration organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. The 73-year-old widow of Birmingham-born Black Sabbath legend Ozzy Osbourne appeared to confirm her attendance online, posting "see you at the march" under an Instagram video promoting the event.
Controversial Rally Sparks Backlash
The rally, titled 'Unite The Kingdom,' is scheduled for May 16 in London. Tommy Robinson, a controversial figure, stated he organized the march for people "who have had enough of migration and mass immigration and the oppression from a tyrannical government." Reaction to Sharon Osbourne's involvement has been mixed online, with some expressing disappointment while others praised her for "speaking up unlike every other celebrity."
Charity's Firm Stance on Values
Centrepoint, which had recently engaged Sharon Osbourne as a contracted ambassador for a campaign, has been forced to distance itself from her following the comment. A charity spokesperson told The Guardian that the march "does not align with our values." The spokesperson clarified, "While Sharon supported us on this campaign, for which she was referred to as an ambassador as is standard for Omaze prize draws, she is not an official ongoing ambassador of Centrepoint, and we have no plans to work together in the future."
Background and Charity's Mission
The charity expressed gratitude to Sharon Osbourne for supporting its 'Omaze' campaign, which raised funds by selling entries for a sweepstakes-style draw to win a £5 million home. However, Centrepoint emphasized its commitment to inclusivity, stating, "Centrepoint has a proud history of supporting young people whatever their background, ethnicity or religion. If we want young people to thrive in this country, then we need to ensure our society continues to allow them to live without fear and able to access the opportunities they need to start education or work and leave homelessness behind."
More than 100,000 people were estimated to have attended the 'Unite The Kingdom' rally last year, highlighting the event's significant scale and contentious nature. BirminghamLive has reached out to Centrepoint for further comment on the situation.
