Today is a very important and notable day, as 10 September marks World Suicide Prevention Day.
In aid of this Gay Times Magazine have developed their own flag, which was made specifically to raise awareness of LGBTQ youth suicide.
‘The Flag We Shouldn’t Be Proud Of’ will today be raised at the iconic location that is Birmingham’s Town Hall.
The recognisable pride flag has been adjusted in order to create a powerful message: 2 of the 6 stripes have been removed in order to represent the 2 in 6 LGBTQ young people we risk losing to suicide (due to problems such as bullying, discrimination, gender identity and mental health).
What makes this statement even more hard-hitting is the fact that the chosen stripes which have been taken away are blue and red; these colours traditionally symbolise ‘Life’ and ‘Harmony’.
This move has touched the hearts of many, including Joe Lycett, the comedian who is due to perform at the Symphony Hall this November, who said: “I’m really excited about performing at Birmingham Symphony Hall, but even more so now knowing that they are supporting such an important cause. Suicide and mental health issues are massive problems in the LGBTQ+ community and I’m delighted THSH are helping to highlight this.”
The advertising creatives from The Gate London, John Osborne and Rickie Marsden, who initiated the project, commented: “Despite this being an issue close to our hearts, we didn’t realise the scale of the problem. We felt like we had to help put a spotlight on it and start the conversation in a simple yet powerful way.”
For more information, or for support and assistance, you can call 0300 330 0630 or visit switchboard.lgbt.
> Hannah Montgomery
LGBTQ Awareness Flag Raised to Mark World Suicide Prevention Day
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