In pictures: York’s marriage equality protest

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Photos: Rianca Vogels

Over 70 people turned out at the Minster today to protest against the Archbishop of York’s comments on gay marriage.

The demonstration, which was organised by YUSU LGBT Officer Cem Turhan, saw University of York students join with locals and students from York St John and Leeds to take a stand against Archbishop John Sentamu’s remarks.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph the Bishop was quoted as saying that “marriage is a relationship between a man and a woman” and controversially said that the Prime Minister would be acting like a “dictator” if he tried to push reforms through.

The protest was peaceful, with demonstrators carrying placards and chanting slogans inbetween speeches given by the organisers and impassioned activists.

Second year student, Beth Richardson-Hill attended the protest and told Vision: “All people wanted was to say how they felt, and it was quite inspiring to see a few members of the older population of York. Essentially marriage should be about the union of two people regardless of sexual orientation and it was lovely to see so many people who agreed.”

YUSU Welfare Officer Robert Hughes said of the protest: “I think the protest was a brilliant way of showing how many people are passionate about this topic, and about the Archbishop’s comments. It was great to see such a large number of enthusiastic and passionate people come to protest, and people stayed peaceful, good-natured and positive throughout.”

The Archbishop of York’s office had no comment on the protest.