Street preachers ‘called cousins gay and forced Muslim man to seek … – msnNOW
© Stoke Sentinel Derby Street in Leek
Locals have been left dismayed by the comments of street preachers in a town centre. It comes after two cousins were allegedly called gay for holding hands.
Other accusations include a Muslim man needing to seek shelter and a shopworker being reduced to tears. Following the outrage cause by the preachers in Leek, Staffordshire, the local council has vowed to prevent such behaviour.
The complaints revolve around street preachers present on Derby Street on Tuesdays. Staffordshire Moorlands District Council (SMDC) leader, Paul Roberts, said that he has received complaints from shoppers and business owners in the area, StokeonTrentLive reports.
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He said: “I can think of very, very few issues in Leek over recent years that have galvanised public opinion such as this. I guess some people will say this is a classic stand off between freedom of speech and worship.
“But there can’t be freedom of speech to outrage, there can’t be freedom of speech to spread hatred and loathing – which I think the activities of four or five men over the course of many months have led.
“It’s not very nice. The street preachers are terrible.”
A council motion states: “The council notes the widespread dismay caused to residents of Leek by the activities of the street preachers. It agrees that there is no place for the utterance in public spaces of homophobic or misogynistic comments which residents have been subject to for some time.
“The motion believes that residents are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Hateful comments have no place in our community.
“SMDC will work with the police and other community safety partners, Staffordshire County Council, and town and parish councils to challenge and prevent such behaviour. SMDC wishes to assure all its residents and visitors that they are valued members of the community.”
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