Organisers of Brighton and Hove Pride have expressed their solidarity with Berlin’s LGBTQ+ community following a deadly attack in the German capital at the weekend.
One woman was killed, and 29 other people were injured after a man drove into crowds and carried out a series of stabbings on Saturday night.
Brighton and Hove Pride said it was deeply saddened by the incident and stressed that Pride events should remain places of celebration, safety and joy.
In a statement, organisers said: “We are deeply saddened by the attack in Berlin. We stand in solidarity with the Berlin LGBTQ+ community. This is why we march for our rights. Pride should be a place of celebration and joy. Brighton stands with Berlin.”
The comments come ahead of Brighton and Hove Pride, which is expected to attract large crowds to the city this weekend.
Organisers said security arrangements for the event had been carefully planned and would continue to be reviewed as the celebrations take place.
They added: “We work closely with the Police and specialist advisors. Security is reviewed in advance and throughout the Pride weekend.”
Brighton Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the country, drawing visitors from across the UK and overseas for its parade, performances and community celebrations.
The attack in Berlin has prompted renewed concern over the safety of public events and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Police and specialist security advisers are expected to remain closely involved throughout the Brighton Pride weekend, with arrangements reviewed in response to any emerging risks.
Organisers have not announced any changes to the planned programme, with events expected to proceed as scheduled.
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