Peter Tatchell is London Citizen of Sanctuary 2009

Peter Tatchell is London Citizen of Sanctuary 2009

Co-winner with actress Juliet Stevenson and MP Neil GerrardLondon - 22 June 2009

To mark Refugee Week 2009, Peter Tatchell was one of three public figures honoured with the London Citizen of Sanctuary Award 2009, in recognition of his work campaigning on behalf of refugees. The other winners were Labour MP Neil Gerrard and actress Juliet Stevenson. All three were honoured at a ceremony at the New Players Theatre in London on Sunday night, 21 June 2009, which included a performance of the Asylum Monologues by the troupe, Actors for Human Rights. London City of Sanctuary is part of a growing network of British cities and towns dedicated to promoting a culture of hospitality and welcome to people seeking sanctuary from persecution, including persecution on the grounds of their politics, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity.

See its website here: http://www.cityofsanctuary.org/london

Accepting his award, Peter Tatchell said: "I accept this award with honour, gratitude and humility. I am just a small part of a vast network of individuals and organisations who support refugees fleeing persecution. Many of these refugees have suffered arrest, imprisonment, torture, rape and attempts to kill them. "Cumulatively and collectively, we are helping transform their lives for the better. This is hugely rewarding emotionally - for the refugees, and for all of us involved in helping ensure they have a place of sanctuary here in London.

"I would like to pay tribute to the magnificent work of organisations such as the Refugee Council, Refugee Action, Medical Justice, Bail Circle, Bail for Immigration Detainees, No Borders, National Coalition of Anti-Deportation Campaigns, UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group, Lesbian and Gay Asylum Team and many others. "Together, over the years, these organisations have made a huge positive difference to the lives of tens of thousands of refugees," said Mr Tatchell.

Further information: Peter Tatchell - 0207 403 1790