ORGANISERS of Lichfield Pride say they are "deeply concerned" over restrictions placed on libraries.
Eight MPs have written to Staffordshire County Council's leader calling for clarity after it emerged guidance had been issued to libraries which could prevent them hosting displays linked to Pride Month.
The county council has also told Burntwood Town Council a flag flying outside Burntwood Library had to come down.
In a post on social media, Staffordshire County Council said the displays were focusing on "applying a consistent approach" on how public display space is used – and insisted it remained focused on keeping libraries "welcoming, useful and accessible to everyone".
But organisers of Lichfield Pride said any restrictions would have an impact on people within the local community.
They said:
"Lichfield Pride is deeply concerned by proposals that could restrict libraries and public spaces from displaying materials that celebrate and recognise LGBTQ+ communities and other minority groups during awareness and heritage months.
"Libraries are places of learning, understanding and discovery. Displays recognising Pride Month, LGBTQ+ History Month, Black History Month, Disability History Month and other awareness campaigns are not about promoting an agenda – they are about visibility, education and ensuring everyone feels seen and valued.
"For many LGBTQ+ people, particularly young people, seeing themselves represented in public spaces can be incredibly important. It sends a powerful message that they are welcome, they belong and they matter."
The organisation added that restricting displays linked to Pride Month risked returning to a period where LGBTQ+ members of society were forced into the shadows.
They said:
"Many people will remember the impact of Section 28 and the silence it created around LGBTQ+ lives and experiences.
"While those laws are long gone, any move that reduces visibility and representation risks undoing years of progress towards a more inclusive society.
"We believe Staffordshire should be a place where diversity is celebrated, equality is protected, and every person can see themselves reflected in the communities and services around them.
"We are calling on Staffordshire County Council to protect inclusion, visibility and equality within our libraries and public services."
An online petition has also been launched by the Rainbow Connections organisation calling for any restrictions on displays to be withdrawn.
