In a recent incident that unfolded during the Belfast Pride parade, a street preacher was filmed making inflammatory accusations against the LGBTQ+ community, an act now being treated as a hate crime by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). The incident, which occurred on Royal Avenue, was recorded by officers on body-worn cameras, and the footage is currently being reviewed by detectives as part of their investigation.
Belfast Pride, the main event in the city’s LGBTQ+ calendar, saw thousands of people participating under this year’s theme, “Stand by Your Trans.” However, amidst the celebration, the disturbing encounter with the street preacher marred the occasion. More than 250 groups and agencies took part in the parade, showing a 25% increase from the previous year, as reported by the organizers.
The language used during the incident has sparked outrage among members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Co-chairperson of Belfast Pride, John O’Doherty, condemned the preacher’s remarks as “entirely unacceptable.” While acknowledging the right to protest, O’Doherty emphasized the responsibility that comes with it, stating that everyone must abide by the expectations set in law when it comes to public demonstrations.
In Northern Ireland, hate crime does not constitute a separate offense; rather, it pertains to the motivation behind an incident. Public order legislation, such as the 1987 Public Order (NI) Order, considers stirring up hatred using abusive language in public as an offense. These cases are typically addressed by magistrates’ courts and can carry penalties of up to six months’ imprisonment or fines below £5,000.
Belfast Pride organizers intend to raise concerns about the incident’s language during a meeting with senior PSNI officers. The timing of when the incident was officially categorized as a hate crime, given the presence of officers at the scene, has also come under scrutiny. As the investigation unfolds, the LGBTQ+ community seeks reassurance that such incidents will be handled appropriately, upholding the values of equality and respect for all.