Chief executive officer of Pride in London Christopher Joell-Deshields is being investigated over alleged misuse of funds, but still remains in his role.
Joell-Deshields, who has been chief executive of the non-profit since 2012, is under internal investigation over claims he abused his position, as revealed in a Guardian exclusive.
Claims made by whistleblowers include that Joell-Desheilds took part in the misappropriation or misuse of gifts or company funds, behaviour damaging or potentially damaging the company’s reputation, harassment or bullying personnel and a “serious breach” of bullying, harassment and finance policies.
Joell-Desheilds has been suspended by a newly constituted board of London LGBT Community Pride, the community interest company behind the parade, according to sources who spoke to The Guardian.
‘I remain in my role’
He said: “I remain in my role as CEO of Pride in London and as a director of London LGBT Community Pride CIC.
“The current legal and governance matters relate to the organisation itself. These matters are being addressed through the appropriate channels, and it would be inappropriate to litigate them in the press.
“Nothing in this statement should be interpreted as an admission of any allegation, nor does it comment on any other individual. For that reason, I will not be making any further comment at this time.”
‘We take such allegations extremely seriously’
A spokesperson on behalf of the board of directors told PinkNews: “The Board of Directors is aware of a number of allegations and is taking action to investigate these claims.
“We are not in a position to comment further while these investigations are taking place, save to say that we take such allegations extremely seriously, and remain committed to upholding a safe, open and inclusive organisation that is compliant with its legal and governance obligations.”
A Pride in London press release, which PinkNews has been told has not been authorised by the board of directors, added: “Christopher Joell-Deshields continues as Chief Executive Officer of Pride in London and Director of London LGBT Community Pride CIC. The organisation’s operations continue without interruption, maintaining its commitment to serving the LGBTQ+ community across the capital.
“Pride in London remains focused on delivering its programme of community events and activities, building on its position as London’s premier Pride celebration. The organisation continues to strengthen its strategic focus while ensuring the highest standards of governance and transparency.”
This isn’t the first time Pride in London has been embroiled in controversy. In May 2021, Pride in London issued an apology after allegations of racism and bullying swamped the organisation.
The apology followed five directors – including co-chairs Michael Salter-Church, who founded the organisation, and Alison Camps – resigning in March following allegations of a hostile environment for people of colour within Pride in London.
At the time, Joell-Deshields said: “Picking up the mantle of leadership to deliver transformative change is no easy task but it is one I feel truly proud of and optimistic about.
“As Pride in London moves forward we will continue to listen and create a space that values diverse views and incorporates these into its culture, processes and decision making.”
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