Redland backflip allows lighthouse to shine in rainbow colours for global day against homophobia

After backlash and community pressure, Redland council has backflipped, agreeing to light up Cleveland lighthouse in rainbow colours to mark next month’s global day against homophobia.

Redland City Council mayor Jos Mitchell originally backed plans to fly the Rainbow Flag outside council chambers but says the decision not to was an organisational one.

A bayside council will light up an iconic lighthouse in rainbow colours after a major backdown to finally recognise and support the gay and queer community on May 17, the global day against homophobia and discrimination.

Redland City Council had initially refused to fly the rainbow flag on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia next month, citing “operational concerns” and flag protocol red tape.

That decision sparked public outrage, with many accusing the council of failing to show support for the queer community and other minorities on such a significant day.

In response to mounting pressure, the council this week reversed its stance and opted instead to illuminate Cleveland Lighthouse in rainbow colours as a gesture of inclusion and diversity.

Local advocate Callen Sorensen Karklis led the charge, launching a campaign and petition that gained strong community backing and stirred up some backlash prompting the council to reconsider its position.

Callen Sorensen Karklis led the charge, launching a campaign and petition to force the council to acknowledge the day in May. Picture: Contributed

“It shouldn’t have taken this much effort,” Mr Sorensen Karklis said.

“This isn’t just about flags or lights, it’s about whether Redland really stands up for all its people.”

The council’s original refusal to fly the rainbow flag had drawn criticism from some residents, who warned that not acknowledging IDAHOBIT could violate Queensland’s Anti-Discrimination Act and Human Rights Act.

In response, the council confirmed this week that the iconic Cleveland Lighthouse would be lit in rainbow colours to mark the occasion.

“Following a request from residents, the council will light up Cleveland Lighthouse to mark IDAHOBIT,” a spokesperson said.

“Council had wanted to raise the IDAHOBIT flag, but national flag rules prevent it from being flown on current flagpoles.”

IDAHOBIT Day is May 17.

The decision marks a significant shift in the council’s stance, particularly after some councillors had initially opposed the flag-raising, citing the Flags Act 1953 and federal guidelines.

Redland councillor Paul Golle, who originally opposed the flying the rainbow flag, eventually supported the lighthouse lighting as a reasonable middle ground claiming it was a complex issue.

The council also pointed to internal initiatives including a Pride staff group, rainbow lanyards, online diversity training, and Pride Month events.

Mr Sorensen Karklis said the victory was a reminder of the power of community action.

“Council only acted because the community forced the issue and this proves that when voices come together, and the law’s on your side, you can crack through silence and resistance.”

May 17 has marked the International Day Against Homophobia since 1990, when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

Originally published as Redland backflip allows lighthouse to shine in rainbow colours for global day against homophobia