The Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association (GALHA) is calling for a boycott of Laura Ashley shops after the ailing company appointed US Tele-Evangelist Pat Robertson as a non-executive director. Mr Robertson is founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network, one of the largest TV channels in the world, and a vigorous opponent of lesbian and gay rights in America.
George Broadhead of GALHA said: “We are horrified that a well-respected company like Laura Ashley should invite such a homophobe to be a director. Pat Robertson has used his considerable power and influence to whip up hatred and violence against the US lesbian and gay community. Last year, he claimed that Disney World would be hit by a hurricane after it hosted a Gay Day rally. He said at the time: ‘Mickey Mouse had better hit the storm shelter’. Of course, no hurricane occurred. He also called for a boycott on the Disney Corporation because it gives equal status to its gay employees – another move which failed miserably."
Now, using the same tactics, GALHA is calling on the UK gay community to give Laura Ashley a wide berth.
Mr Broadhead added: “My own living room is decorated with Laura Ashley wallpaper, and I suspect that many lesbian and gay people are fans of the company’s products. However, I shall be looking elsewhere for furnishings in future.”
GALHA has long combated religious attacks on lesbian and gay people – attacks which seem to be becoming ever more frequent – and is sending a letter of protest to Dr Kay Peng Khoo who owns 40% of the company, and who invited Pat Robertson to join the board.