This Pride month, we sat down with Kemi Akinola, Deputy Leader at Wandsworth Council and Cabinet Member for Business, Voluntary Services, and Culture.
Kemi is leading on Wandsworth’s Ask for Clive campaign that aims to promote safe spaces in local communities for LGBTQ+ people. We caught up with her to find out more.
Hi Kemi! What is the Ask for Clive campaign?
At Wandsworth Council we believe and actively promote a safe and enjoyable nightlife for everyone. Unfortunately, there are still those who like to impinge on other people, due to their race, religion, gender and sexuality.
For those minorities, Ask for Clive exists as a reminder that harassment and hate speech towards the LGBTQ+ community will not be tolerated in these establishments. It reminds perpetrators that it’s them who’ll be removed, not their victim.
Why is the campaign so important?
It’s important that everyone feels safe enough to live their best life and enjoy all of the great shops and entertainment venues that Wandsworth has to offer, without fear of attack, harassment and assault.
We want visitors and residents to feel safe in Wandsworth. No matter your demographic, there’s space for everyone.
How is Ask for Clive being rolled out through Wandsworth?
It is a voluntary scheme that we are encouraging existing businesses to sign up to and new businesses are sent information to join the scheme on application for a licence.
We ideally want all businesses to sign up to Ask for Clive and our Women’s Night Safety Charter, so that we create the best town centres for people and businesses to thrive.
Do you know how many local venues are currently participating in the scheme?
We currently have around 45 businesses signed up and we have added them to our own Ask for Clive map [below].
As venues sign up we add them to the map.
Why should local businesses get involved?
It’s the right thing to do.
Wandsworth is open for all people and good businesses, and so we need to ensure everyone feels safe. When people feel safe and receive good service they tell people, and your business grows.
Where can local businesses and community groups go to get more information about Ask for Clive?
Businesses who want to support the campaign can apply via the Ask for Clive website, or email [email protected]. They will receive window stickers and information directly.
What’s happening in Wandsworth for Pride?
We have a ton of local activities at our libraries that everyone can get involved with.
And, of course, Wandsworth Arts Fringe has an amazing selection of LGBTQ+ performances taking place. The event is supercharged this year as we are London Borough of Culture!
