A series of targeted attacks on Clonezone, a Manchester-based gay adult shop, has caused concern among the LGBTQ+ community. In recent weeks, the store’s windows have been smashed three times, leading to the arrest of a 32-year-old man by Greater Manchester Police on May 10. The shop has vehemently denied claims that it staged the attacks on itself.
Topher Taylor, head of public relations and social media at Clonezone, condemned the accusations and called for unity among the queer community and its allies against any form of discrimination. He highlighted the importance of the safety of the store’s team members and the overwhelming support received from various quarters, including MPs, the LGBT Foundation, RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, and loyal customers.
Taylor noted that the attacks occurred amidst the increasing villainization and targeting of the LGBTQ+ community by politicians and the UK press. He emphasized that Clonezone, the UK and Europe’s first gay superstore, has worked tirelessly to keep the business open and running as usual.
Chief inspector Adam Wignall, announcing the arrest, described the attacks on Clonezone as “abhorrent” and assured the community that the police were determined to clamp down on such criminality in the community. The police have urged anyone with information on the incidents to come forward.
Clonezone has been a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community since its inception in 1982. It has continued to serve the community by providing a sex-positive business that caters to queer people, run by queer people.
The attacks on Clonezone serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding LGBTQ+ rights and the need to work together to create a safe and inclusive environment for all. The LGBTQ+ community has come a long way in its struggle for acceptance and equality, but there is still much to be done to eliminate hate crimes and discrimination. We must continue to speak out against such incidents and support businesses and individuals that uphold LGBTQ+ values.
