The CEO of Pride in London has been placed on suspension pending an internal investigation into claims of bullying against a disabled volunteer, as well as accusations of misusing sponsor-contributed vouchers to purchase high-end perfumes.
Christopher Joell-Deshields, who has held his position since 2021, is facing multiple allegations from volunteer directors and other members of the organization.
Both current and former volunteers have expressed concerns to the BBC that these accusations could harm one of Europe’s largest pride events, especially given the “fragile” conditions currently faced by pride organizations throughout the UK.
In a statement to The Guardian, Mr. Joell-Deshields indicated that discussing the issue publicly would be “inappropriate,” but he asserted that he continues to fulfill his duties in the role.
The allegations, initially reported by The Guardian, focus on the alleged misuse of donations and suggest a “bullying culture” within the organization, which employs more than a hundred year-round volunteers alongside three salaried staff members.
Mr. Joell-Deshields is said to have used sponsor vouchers to buy luxury perfumes, as well as Apple speakers and headphones.
According to the BBC, there are also claims of a toxic working environment within the organization, including reports from a disabled volunteer who alleges they received bullying messages via WhatsApp from Mr. Joell-Deshields.
Sources familiar with the situation have informed the BBC of an ongoing separate legal dispute regarding allegations that the organization’s policies are discriminatory towards disabled volunteers.
In the wake of these allegations, a newly established board of directors for London LGBT Community Pride (LLCP), the community interest company managing parts of the annual event, has opted to suspend Mr. Joell-Deshields.
However, in his statement, Mr. Joell-Deshields suggested that he does not acknowledge the authority of the new board to take such action.
He remarked: “I maintain my position as CEO of Pride in London and as a director of London LGBT Community Pride CIC. The present legal and governance issues pertain to the organization itself. These concerns are being handled through the proper channels, and discussing them publicly would be inappropriate.
“Nothing in this statement should be construed as an admission of any allegation, nor does it pertain to any other individual.”
