More Than Flags and Rainbows, an organisation dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and combating bullying in schools, is calling on local organisations and event planners in Cardiff to reconsider their use of the All Nations Centre as a venue for their events. The venue is owned by All Nations Church, which has openly opposed a proposed ban on conversion therapy—a harmful and discredited practice aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The not-for-profit organisation, which was established earlier this year has made this call following the discovery that Welsh Government is planning on using the All Nations Centre to host a conference for secondary school headteachers on 8th November 2024. [Further details below]
Conversion therapy, which has been condemned by major health and psychological bodies globally, is widely recognised as a form of psychological abuse. Research has shown that those who have undergone such 'therapy' are at significantly higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. The practice reinforces stigma, undermines the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, and has no legitimate basis in medical or psychological treatment.
In light of this, More Than Flags and Rainbows finds it deeply concerning that All Nations Church opposes a ban on such a harmful practice. While we respect the rights of religious organisations to hold their beliefs, we believe that public spaces—particularly those used for community and charitable events—should be free from associations with any organisation that supports harmful practices like conversion therapy.
Founder of More than Flag and Rainbows, Ian Timbrell commented: “In light of their previous statements on conversation therapy, we are calling on the All Nations Church to publicly clarify their position on this issue and provide an explain their opposition to the ban. Conversion therapy has no place in a modern society, particularly in a nation with a proud tradition of acceptance and equal treatment for all.
Until such clarification is provided, we urge the Welsh Government, and all organisations to reconsider the use of the All Nations Centre is an appropriate venue for their events. We believe that using inclusive and supportive spaces is essential in fostering a more welcoming and safe environment for all, including the LGBTQ+ community.
By taking a stand against conversion therapy and choosing venues aligned with equality and inclusion, we can continue to build a country where everyone is valued for who they are.”
For more information or comment, please contact:
More Than Flags and Rainbows
More Than Flags and Rainbows is a not-for-profit organisation funded in 2024 and based in South Wales. The CIC aims to make all schools and colleges more inclusive spaces. Founded by Ian Timbrell, we work with schools across the UK to help teachers to provide safe, inclusive environments for all their students by providing training and workshops in-person and online.
The conference in question is being held at the All-Nations Centre on 8th November 2024, organised by Education Wales, part of the Welsh Government and entitled “Boosting standard: A View from School – Secondary headteacher conference"
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