Boris Johnson

London Mayor Boris Johnson is to attend a carol service hosted by Pastor Agu Irukwu who has stated that he opposes civil partnerships and the fostering of children by same-sex couples.

Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said:
"London Mayor Boris Johnson has made a big mistake by agreeing to attend a carol service hosted by a homophobic clergyman.
 
"Pastor Agu Irukwu is a long-time opponent of gay equality. His faith opposes civil partnerships and the fostering of children by same-sex couples.

"On July 13, 2006 he signed a letter to Daily Telegraph suggesting that gay people are not equal to heterosexual people and opposing laws to protect lesbians and gay men against discrimination. He denounced such laws as 'Christianophobia'"

"I don't know whether he regards homosexuals as possessed by the devil and supports the exorcism of gay people, but someone ought to ask him.  

"Boris should investigate the people who invite him before accepting their invitations.  

"He should not attend this church, for the same reason that he should not attend a church where the pastor preaches against black or Jewish people or against equal rights for women or Muslims.

"The Mayor of a multicultural city should not collude with a preacher who rejects diversity and opposes the human rights of lesbian and gay people.

"Pastor Agu Irukwu is a divisive character. He divides gay and straight Londoners."
 
To see the pastor's letter view:
www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/letters/3626342/Letters-to-The-Daily-Telegraph.html   
 
For more information about Peter Tatchell view:
www.petertatchell.net