How TfL’s Pride Month Ads Sparked a Controversy in London
TfL Under Fire for Allowing Controversial Preacher’s Ads During Pride Month
Transport for London (TfL) is facing backlash for permitting advertisements by controversial US evangelist Rodney Howard-Browne to appear across the London Underground and buses during Pride Month. The preacher, known for his conspiracy-laden claims and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, has sparked outrage among activists, politicians, and human rights groups ahead of his scheduled five-day event at London’s ExCeL Centre.
The ads, promoting a gathering by Howard-Browne’s Florida-based Revival Ministries, have been described as incompatible with London’s inclusive values. The event is billed as featuring “powerful preaching, teaching, and demonstration of the Holy Ghost,” but critics argue it’s a platform for hate and disinformation.
Who Is Rodney Howard-Browne?
Howard-Browne, a pro-Trump evangelical pastor, has built a reputation for his controversial statements and actions. Among his most inflammatory claims are allegations that Hollywood elites participate in satanic rituals involving the blood of children and that the COVID-19 pandemic is a “phantom plague.” He was also arrested in 2020 for holding church services in violation of lockdown rules.
His sermons have frequently targeted the LGBTQ+ community. Revival Ministries has posted videos of testimonies from attendees claiming to be “freed” from homosexuality. The church’s website labels LGBTQ+ individuals as “unclean” and states they will not “inherit the Kingdom of God.”
The Outrage Over the Ads
The appearance of Howard-Browne’s ads on public transport during Pride Month has ignited a wave of criticism. Green London Assembly Member Zack Polanski expressed disbelief at TfL’s decision: “It’s astounding that a man who preaches hate, bigotry, and lies is allowed to advertise on our trains. If the Mayor is serious about building an inclusive London, these ads must be removed immediately.”
Veteran human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell joined the outcry, calling the ads a betrayal of TfL’s supposed commitment to inclusivity. “This preacher is openly anti-LGBTQ+ and spreads hate. Accepting his advertisements during Pride Month is a disgrace,” he said.
TfL’s Defense
Despite the backlash, TfL defended its decision, stating the ads complied with their advertising policy and the guidance of the Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP). A TfL spokesperson explained: “This advert was reviewed and found to have complied with our advertising policy.” However, they did not disclose the revenue generated from the campaign, citing arrangements with their media partner.
Calls for Action
Campaigners and activists are urging TfL to take immediate action to remove the advertisements. They argue that allowing Howard-Browne’s ads undermines London’s commitment to equality and inclusivity, especially during a month celebrating LGBTQ+ pride. Critics also question how such a campaign passed through TfL’s vetting process without raising red flags.
Polanski and Tatchell emphasized the need for stricter oversight of advertising policies, especially when it comes to content that could harm marginalized communities. “This isn’t just about money—it’s about values,” Tatchell stated.
Rodney Howard-Browne’s Connections
Howard-Browne’s close ties to former US President Donald Trump have further fueled the controversy. The pastor was among a group of evangelical leaders invited to the White House in 2017 to pray for Trump. His political affiliations and conspiracy theories have made him a polarizing figure both in the US and abroad.
Public Backlash
Social media has erupted with criticism of TfL’s decision. One Twitter user wrote: “How can TfL claim to support Pride while running ads for a preacher who calls LGBTQ+ people unclean?” Another commented: “Allowing hate speech to be advertised on public transport is unacceptable.”
What’s Next for TfL?
The growing backlash puts pressure on TfL to reevaluate its decision. Advocacy groups are demanding the immediate removal of the ads and a review of TfL’s advertising guidelines to prevent similar controversies in the future.
While Revival Ministries and the ExCeL Centre have yet to comment, the incident has reignited debates about the balance between free speech and protecting public spaces from harmful messaging.
Follow us on Instagram and X (Formerly Twitter)
For the latest posts visit The Celebrity Gossips
