Published:
11:10 September 10, 2022
A petition has been launched to reinstate the Hackney Carnival, which was canceled after the Queen’s death.
The carnival was due to be held on Sunday (September 11), after two years with the in-person event interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
On Friday Mayor of Hackney Philip Glanville and Cllr Chris Kennedy, cabinet member for culture, released a statement saying: “Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II yesterday, Hackney Council regrets to announce the cancellation of Hackney Carnival on Sunday on September 11, as the nation enters an official 10-day period of mourning to observe the loss of its longest-serving monarch.
“We will consider whether it is possible to hold the Carnival at a later date this year, or if we can showcase the artists’ work in another way.”
A petition has been started on change.org, saying: “People from the local community have spent countless hours and money preparing for this event, which will now go to waste. There is no guarantee yet if the event can happen. rescheduled this year.
“This is the wrong decision to make – local small businesses will suffer and people who are already struggling. If the council wants to mark the Queen’s death, then a proper act of remembrance during the event would be a more appropriate approach. measured.”
Cllr Kennedy said on Friday: “It was with great regret that we had to cancel this weekend’s Hackney Carnival. Up and down the country, major events – from Premier League football matches to Prom Night – have been canceled and we felt it would be inappropriate to go ahead with such a festive event in this period of national mourning. Councils also have a civic duty to hold a local public announcement event on Sunday afternoon, which is a solemn occasion and would be incompatible with a major outdoor cultural event.
“The council will, of course, honor all of its contractual commitments to its suppliers, both within the arts and carnival community and our event logistics suppliers.
“Catering concessions/food stands that were booked for the event have been reimbursed for their fees and offered alternative pitches at local markets which will be open this weekend. We are unable to provide compensation to businesses with whom we do not have a contractual agreement.
“We have contacted the Felix Project, a local food distribution charity, who will take delivery of unused fresh food and ensure it goes to people in need.
“The Carnival community and all our artists – as well as many council staff – have put so much work into this event and we are exploring ways in which their work can be displayed, whether that be through a later event, or alternatives for example. gala show, after the period of national mourning.”
The petition’s organizer attempted to launch a petition on Parliament’s website, but it has been suspended with the statement: “Following the sad announcement of the death of Her Majesty the late Queen, the petition has been suspended until further notice.
“Please check back later for more information.”
The petition is at www.change.org/p/reinstate-hackney-carnival
