Hosts
Zoe Lyons
We’re thrilled that Zoe Lyons, one of the UK’s favourite comedians, will be hosting this year’s Brighton Equality Walk!
Zoe is a regular on TV with credits including Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, One Night Stand, Mock the Week and The Wright Stuff. We were delighted when last September she performed at Stonewall’s very first comedy night, Girls Night Out, and we’re thrilled she’s signed up to support the Walk in this very special 10th anniversary year.
Talking about why she wanted to get involved in the Walk, Zoe said: ‘ It’s 2013 – anti-gay bullying in schools just shouldn’t be happening. It’s shocking that young people in schools still have to go through this – and Stonewall’s work tackling homophobic bullying is absolutely crucial. That’s why I’m proud to be hosting this year’s Brighton Equality Walk and I urge lesbian, gay and bisexual people near and far to support this event.’
Rylan Clark and Lucy Spraggan
We’re delighted that X Factor favourites Rylan Clark and Lucy Spraggan are throwing their support behind Stonewall’s Brighton Equality Walk!
Singer-songwriter Lucy’s talents shone through at the 2012 auditions with her self-penned song Last Night, which has since gone on to have over 20 million views on You Tube. After becoming a firm favourite in the X Factor final, Rylan has since gone on to win Celebrity Big Brother, as well as being one of the seven acts on the X Factor live shows.
Speaking about why they’re supporting the Walk Rylan said: ‘We’ve had first-hand experience of homophobia and know just how hurtful it can be. If it’s not challenged and dealt with it can spiral out of control, so we hope everyone will get involved and sign up for the walk. It can really make a difference.’
Previous Hosts
Sir Ian McKellen
“Since I first joined the Brighton Equality Walk nine years ago, there have been very welcome improvements in the lives of gay people in the UK. These must help young people feel that life will get better for them but there is work to be done.
I’ve been visiting the wonderful schools who are Stonewall Champions, as they tackle homophobic bullying and a careless playground language which can inhibit gay students and gay teachers from being open and fulfilled.
By signing up to take part in the Brighton Walk this year, you can help Stonewall make school a happier and healthier place in the future. Take it from me, it’s fun walking with a purpose in the company of like-minded friends, old and new.”
Amy Lamé
“By signing up to take part in the Brighton Walk this year, you can help Stonewall make school a happier and healthier place in the future. Take it from me, it’s fun walking with a purpose in the company of like-minded friends, old and new.
Taking part in the Stonewall Equality Walk is a great way to kickstart the summer and raise important funds to combat homophobic bullying. It’s always a super friendly atmosphere and a fabulous opportunity to raise awareness.”
Brian Paddick
“I was bullied because of my sexuality, particularly at school and for bullying to continue today is totally unacceptable. That’s why I support Stonewall and its Education for All campaign to make Britain a safe place for all young people to live in.”
Charlie Condou
“If you’re experiencing homophobic bullying, Stonewall can help you. Schools across the country now have their ‘Some people are gay. Get over it!’ posters and their anti-homophobia DVD ‘FIT’ to help them tackle the issue head-on. So teachers have no more excuses for tolerating homophobic bullying, and schools no longer have to be scary places for lesbian, gay and bisexual young people. The Brighton Walk is so important because it helps to continue to show the wider world that we’re proud to be different and it’s something to celebrate, not be ashamed of.”
