…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, faced criticism over his refusal to condemn Pride in London’s choice of United Airlines as its headline sponsor.
Additionally, questions were raised about United Airlines covering the travel expenses for Khan and his team during their trips to and within America.
Zack Polanski, the Green Party’s deputy leader, accused Khan of lacking “climate leadership” by not addressing the sponsorship decision.
Defending Pride Sponsorship
During a Mayor’s Question Time session, Zack Polanski questioned Sadiq Khan about the leadership demonstrated by this year’s headline sponsor of Pride in London in tackling the climate crisis.
Khan responded by stating that the event receives support from various businesses, charities, and organizations.
He emphasized the importance of unity in the movement for LGBTQI+ equality and acknowledged that City Hall’s funding covers less than ten percent of the event’s total cost, with Pride in London having to secure additional funds in challenging economic circumstances.
Selection Process and Corporate Responsibility
Khan clarified that Pride in London is responsible for selecting and vetting sponsors for the event.
Regarding this year’s headline sponsors, Khan stated that Pride in London carefully reviewed their corporate responsibility reports, paying close attention to their environmental strategies and climate-related initiatives.
He highlighted the significance of commercial sponsors for the event’s continuation, as public funding has its limitations.
Accusations of Rainbow-Washing
Polanski accused Khan of allowing a major carbon-polluting company to engage in “rainbow-washing,” exploiting Pride.
He suggested that sponsorship opportunities allow companies to improve their reputation, regardless of the extent of their financial contribution.
Khan responded by clarifying that the decision-making authority lies with Pride in London.
He referred to a statement from the organization that welcomes diverse sponsors who undergo vetting to ensure alignment with core values of visibility, unity, equality, and social and environmental responsibility.
City Hall’s Relationship with United Airlines
Polanski questioned City Hall’s connection with United Airlines, highlighting that the airline funded Khan, deputy mayors, and their team’s trip to America in May 2022, providing tens of thousands of pounds worth of free flights.
He raised concerns about whether a supposedly green mayor accepting thousands of pounds in free flights was appropriate.
Khan’s Response and Travel Arrangements
Khan suggested that Polanski would reflect on his comments and expressed his anticipation of celebrating Pride in London.
It was revealed that United Airlines covered the travel expenses for Khan and his team, including flights from London to New York, New York to San Francisco, San Francisco to Los Angeles, and Los Angeles back to London.
A spokesperson for the mayor clarified that the visit aimed to promote tourism, showcase London, and foster connections with businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, and students.
City Hall secured an agreement with United Airlines for a group flight package, resulting in reduced costs with only taxes and fees payable, without establishing a formal partnership between the Greater London Authority and United Airlines.
Conclusion:
Sadiq Khan defended Pride in London’s sponsorship decisions and addressed allegations of rainbow-washing.
He emphasized the importance of commercial sponsors in supporting the event and clarified that Pride in London handles the selection process.
Khan also responded to questions regarding United Airlines’ funding of his travel arrangements, emphasizing the promotional nature of the visit and the reduced cost agreement made with the airline.