An LGBTQ+ Pride rainbow crossing in Bristol has been graffitied with a banner that says “Jesus loves sinners”.
The graffiti has sparked controversy on social media with people calling for Avon and Somerset police to start an investigation.
The rainbow crossing, painted near Castle Park, is the first of its kind and has been installed as a permanent feature to celebrate pride month. Its location is symbolic because it is where the Pride parade would have started if coronavirus restrictions had not caused the event to be postponed until later this year.
A picture of the graffiti has gathered more than 300 comments on both Twitter and Facebook. Some of their comments read:
“I hope removing this graffiti is made a priority. It’s a gesture of solidarity between people and a way of celebrating Bristol’s diversity. One person really can be capable of ruining everyone else’s fun…,” @WeirdBristol said.
@happewilhelm argued on Twitter:“Both religious, and LGBT extremism all rolled in one. Both as bad as each other.”
On Facebook, Adam Robinson said: “I get someone added something that wasnt part of thier design. But it fits. Jesus does love sinners but not the sin. He loves everyone no matter what they do. Even if they are LGBT, or a LGBT hater. And atheists shouldn't be mad because they dont believe anyway, so they should just take it as a message of love.”
Both Avon Somerset Police and Bristol Council have been contacted for comment.