Diversity in the community finalists

Jeremy Green (Image: Jeremy Green)

JEREMY Green (Jezza) has been responsible for organising the Holocaust Memorial Day event in Park Gardens for the last two years, and working with the Rev Simon Howell to embrace all faiths and none at the event.

He has demonstrated tireless leadership in pulling together a group of people to raise awareness amongst Stroud’s residents and visitors about the dis-information contained in the Light newspaper, which includes climate change denial and its disproportionate impact impact on poorer nations and communities. Thanks to him, Community Solidarity Stroud District (CSSD) counters this dis-information, which seek to deny inclusion and diversity, with leaflets covering anti-semitism, homophobia and climate change denial which can be found in locations around Stroud.

Maintaining and growing CSSD as a very supportive, well-informed group which seeks to ensure that Stroud Info Hubs’ presence and disinformation doesn’t go unchallenged. Remaining calm in the face of provocation is a significant achievement.

Craig Johnson

Craig Johnson (Image: Newsquest)

ONE of the nominees for the Diversity in the Community Award goes to Craig Johnson of Stroud Pride who has been with the fabulous event since its inception.
Craig Johnson has run Stroud Pride since it started.
He champions equality and diversity even stating it last year in his speech at the event: “We’re celebrating equality and acceptance in Stroud.”
He also pulls together other organisations such as the LGBT+ Partnership, Stroud Against Racism, Cotswold Canals Connected and Creative Sustainability.
Year after year Craig fundraises to be able to run the Stroud Pride, working completely as a volunteer to help the community. 
This is a selfless act which helps our community be a better place for all to live.
This year’s Stroud Pride is on Saturday, June 24 from noon to 6pm in Bank Gardens.
All are welcome to enjoy the annual family friendly picnic with stalls and music.

Michael Lee Scott Jones

Michael Lee Scott Jones (Image: Simon Pizzey)

Michael Lee Scott Jones knows all about diversity in the Stroud area and has been nominated for a diversity in the community award.
Michael Lee Scott Jones also known as Neon should win this because he started and created the drag nights in Stroud causing Stroud to have a drag scene and give LGBTQ+ locals something to celebrate and a venue to feel comfortable and safe at with the Queen Vic providing their space. 
On top of this, he also has organised a fundraiser for Billie Henry (aka Cake) to fund her transition and has joined the Dursley pride committee.
He has organised The drag nights in Stroud (coming back in June) and is organising a fundraiser for Cake’s transition.
Creating various safe spaces throughout Gloucestershire through the events he has organised.
Joining the Dursley pride committee.
Organising a free all ages drag event.