09/07/2025
Public Statement
On the Rise in Transphobic and Homophobic Stickering and Hate Speech
Over the past weeks, Wotton has witnessed a deeply troubling rise in transphobic and homophobic stickering and hateful rhetoric appearing in our community. These acts are not just cowardly, they are a clear reminder that prejudice and hate still persist, and they are being emboldened by the increasingly hostile language coming from some corners of politics and public discourse.
Let us be absolutely clear: Wotton Pride will not stand by, and we will not stay quiet.
These incidents prove exactly why Pride is still necessary, not just as a celebration, but as an act of resistance and solidarity. Pride exists because we still have to fight for safety, for dignity, and for the right to live openly and authentically without fear. When people are targeted simply for being who they are, our work is far from over.
To those spreading hate: You do not represent this town. And to every LGBTQ+ person in Wotton feeling shaken or angry, we see you, we stand with you, and we will continue to make space for you. Love is louder. Community is stronger. And Pride is not going anywhere.
We are calling on local leaders, allies, and residents to speak out, report hate when they see it, and support the work of making Wotton a place where everyone is safe and welcome.
We’ll soon be offering window stickers for businesses who want to show they are a safe space for LGBTQ+ people.
Wotton Pride is here. We’re not going anywhere. And we’re only getting louder.
