Birmingham Pride has formally accepted what its director described as a 'significant and courageous' apology from West Midlands Police for the historic mistreatment of LGBTQ+ communities.
Apology letter from Acting Chief Constable
In a letter addressed to Birmingham Pride leaders, Acting Chief Constable Scott Green apologised for the 'historic mistreatment of LGBTQ+ communities'. He acknowledged that 'lives were ruined' as a result of laws used to target members of the community, particularly gay and bisexual men.
Green stated that West Midlands Police 'will seek to rebuild relationships' and ensure they police without fear or favour going forward.
Pride director's response
Speaking on June 24, Birmingham Pride director Lawrence Barton said the apology 'creates a stronger foundation' for the LGBTQ+ community. On behalf of campaigners, he said: “This is a landmark moment for our community. For decades, LGBTQ+ people were subjected to discrimination, criminalisation and treatment that would be considered wholly unacceptable today. Lives were damaged, careers were destroyed and many people were forced to live in fear simply because of who they were and who they loved.”
Barton continued: “The apology from Acting Chief Constable Scott Green is both significant and courageous. It acknowledges that historic policing practices caused genuine harm to LGBTQ+ communities and accepts institutional responsibility for that history. Importantly, it is not an attempt to excuse the past but to recognise it, learn from it and ensure it is never repeated.”
Healing and rebuilding trust
Barton welcomed the apology on behalf of the many people across the community who have campaigned tirelessly for equality, dignity and respect. He noted that while no apology can undo the pain experienced by those who suffered discrimination, acknowledgement is an important step towards healing and rebuilding trust.
He highlighted that West Midlands Police has been an important partner of Birmingham Pride for many years and that today’s apology demonstrates a genuine commitment to understanding the experiences of LGBTQ+ people, both past and present.
Looking forward
Barton emphasised: “This is not about rewriting history. It is about confronting it honestly. By recognising the mistakes of the past, we create a stronger foundation for the future. As Birmingham Pride prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary, this apology serves as a powerful reminder of how far society has come, whilst recognising there is still work to do.”
He expressed hope for continuing the partnership with West Midlands Police to ensure the West Midlands remains a place where everyone can live openly, safely and proudly. “Today is about acknowledgement, reflection and progress. It is a day that many people never thought they would see,” he concluded.
