Network Rail appears to have broken its own rules after it was accused of a “cheap and perfomative stunt” by unveiling a “Pride Pillar”.
The exhibit, which was installed at London Bridge Dtate, included flags representing “gender fluidity”, “demisexuality” and “polyamory”.
The rainbow flag, which was originally created by a gay political activist in San Francisco in the 1970s, was clearly displayed on the exhibit.
Other flags on the pillar include the polyamory Pride flag, with navy, red and black stripes and a yellow pi sign at the centre, representing an “infinite” number of potential partners.
A Pride Pillar has been installed at London Bridge
NETWORK RAIL
A gender-fluid flag, demisexual flag, and aromantic flag were also put up at London Bridge.
However, the decision to install the exhibit appears to contradict Network Rail’s decision in 2020 to remove an “I love JK Rowling” poster from Edinburgh Waverley station for being “too political”.
Rowling, who is best known for writing the seven Harry Potter books, frequently voices her critical views on transgenderism.
Confirming the decision to remove the post, Network Rail Scotland said: “This advert is no longer being displayed at Edinburgh Waverley.
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A number of LGBT+ flags have been put up on the exhibit
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“The poster in question is against our code of acceptance for advertising in our stations owing to its political nature.
“We do not allow advertising that is likely to support or promote one viewpoint over another.”
Critics said Network Rail wasted public money on a “cheap and performative stunt”.
In a letter to the chief executive of Network Rail, Maya Forstater, co-founder of Sex Matters, complained that the “political” display was “intimidating” for female staff.
A number of LGBT+ Network Rail employees
NETWORK RAIL
She said: “Network Rail's investment in flags representing fringe sexual preferences, such as polyamory, and the erasure of sex in favour of gender, is a slap in the face for women and gay people.”
The exhibit also sparked debate on social media, with one user arguing: “Celebrating people’s existence is not a political act it is supportive of the human rights of all people.”
A Network Rail spokesman said: “Network Rail is proud to be an inclusive company that promotes diversity and equality.
“We worked closely with our diversity and inclusion team to develop the pillar.”