THEGAYUK

Category: Pride

  • Channel Islands pride 2023 is happening this weekend

    Channel Islands pride 2023 is happening this weekend

    Pride is happening this weekend on the Channel Islands, more accurately it’s happening on Jersey this year.

    According to The Pride Shop, Jersey will be hosting the 2023 Channel Islands pride with Guernsey taking the reigns for 2024.

    The first Channel Islands Pride was held in 2015. It took place in St. Helier, the capital of Jersey. Since then, it has become an annual event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and promoting equality and diversity.

    Where are the Channel Islands?

    The Channel Islands are located in the English Channel, between the coast of Normandy, France, and the southern coast of England. They consist of two main islands, Jersey and Guernsey, as well as several smaller islands. The Channel Islands have a rich history and unique cultural identity.

    In addition to these, there are several smaller islands that make up the Channel Islands. Some of the smaller islands include Alderney, Sark, Herm, and Jethou.

    Who’s headlining Channel Island’s Pride 2023?

    The Main Stage line-up for Channel Islands Pride 2023 has been unveiled, promising a fantastic array of talent. British band Five, known for their hits like “Keep on Movin’” and “Got the Feelin’”, will headline the event at People’s Park in St Helier. Joining them on stage will be a lineup of drag acts and Eurovision semi-finalists, including Tomara Thomas, Mercedes Bends, Paige Three, Flesh, and Miss Leigh Ding.

    Christian May, the director, expressed excitement about the exceptional musical and drag talent that will embody the spirit of Pride. He eagerly awaits the participation of everyone in the People’s Park to be a part of this extraordinary celebration. Five, a band that originated in the late 90s and now consists of Scott Robinson, Ritchie Neville, and Sean Conlon, will entertain the crowd with their energetic performances.

    Ellie Prohan, from Kiss FM and Kiss Fresh, will be the headline DJ for the event. Described as an advocate for women, intersectionality, and marginalized communities, Prohan is expected to bring an electrifying atmosphere to the Pride festivities.

    What else is happening at Channel Island’s Pride?

    The Pride Village will feature various zones, including a Family Zone, Community and Wellbeing Zones, Bars and Food Village, as well as an area dedicated to our furry friends. Additionally, the Jersey Electricity Main Stage, hosted by Dr Adam Perchard, the Cabaret Stage, and the Silent Disco will showcase talented local singers, bands, and performers such as Sister Disco and Shea.

    Mr May expressed his gratitude to sponsors such as Jersey Electricity and the Government of Jersey for their support in making Channel Islands Pride the largest free public event in Jersey. The festivities will begin in the Royal Square at 13:00 BST on 16 September, with celebrations continuing in People’s Park and Victoria Park from 14:00 to 22:00. The event promises to be a truly special occasion that celebrates diversity, equality, and the LGBTQ+ community.

  • What UK Prides are happening this weekend? 16th/17th September 2023

    What UK Prides are happening this weekend? 16th/17th September 2023

    Yep. There are still pride events up and down the country. Find out which ones are nearest you with our handy pride guide to UK Prides.

    According to THE PRIDE SHOP’s ultimate pride diary, there are at least 5 prides this coming weekend,16th/17th September, including a transgender pride in Northern Ireland.

    The Channel Islands, Teignmouth in Devon, Whitehaven in Cumbria, and Wolds in Yorkshire will be celebrating their LGBTQ+ community with pride events taking place this weekend.

    16 September 2023Channel Islands Pride 2023 / Jersey
    Whitehaven / Pride At The Harbourside
    Trans Pride Northern Ireland 2023
    16 – 17 September 2023Teignmouth Pride 2023
    Wolds Pride 2023 / Pocklington

    When was the first pride in the UK?

    The first Pride event in the UK, known as the UK’s first official Gay Pride Rally, took place in London on July 1, 1972. 

    The event, organized by the Gay Liberation Front, saw around 2,000 participants marching from Trafalgar Square to Hyde Park. It was a significant milestone in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and marked the beginning of an annual tradition of Pride celebrations in the UK.

    Since then, Pride events have grown in size, visibility, and importance, spreading to various cities and regions across the country. At last count, there were over 170 prides in the UK. The UK boasts two of the largest prides events in the world in London and Brighton. 

    Why do we still have pride?

    Pride events continue to be important for several reasons:

    1. Celebration of Identity: Pride events are an opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals to celebrate their identities, express their true selves, and feel a sense of belonging. These events provide a safe and supportive environment where people can come together and embrace their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.
    2. Visibility and Representation: Pride events help to increase visibility and representation of the LGBTQ+ community, both within society and in the media. By being visible and vocal about their existence and rights, LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can challenge stereotypes, break down stigma, and promote acceptance and understanding.
    3. Advocacy and Activism: Pride events serve as platforms for advocacy and activism, allowing the LGBTQ+ community to raise awareness about the issues they face and work towards positive change. Through marches, protests, speeches, and workshops, Pride events amplify important social and political messages, pushing for equality, justice, and LGBTQ+ rights.
    4. Community Building: Pride events foster a sense of community and solidarity among LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. They provide spaces where people can connect, network, and build supportive relationships. These events often feature community organizations, resources, and services that contribute to the overall well-being and empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community.
    5. Historical Significance: Pride events commemorate the history and progress of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. They serve as reminders of the struggles and achievements of those who came before, honoring their legacy and paving the way for future generations. Pride events acknowledge the ongoing fight for equality and the work that still needs to be done.

    What can you expect from a Pride in the UK?

    Attending a Pride event is a unique and vibrant experience that offers a wide range of activities and celebrations. While each Pride event may have its own distinct features, here are some common elements you can expect:

    LGBTQ+ Parades or March: Pride events often kick off with a colourful parade or march, where participants walk, dance, and celebrate through the streets. The parade showcases a diverse range of LGBTQ+ individuals, community organizations, allies, and floats representing different causes.

    1. Festivities and Entertainment: Pride events typically include live performances, music concerts, drag shows, dance parties, and other forms of entertainment. You can expect a lively and celebratory atmosphere, with a variety of artists, performers, and DJs taking the stage.
    2. Community Engagement: Pride is an opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to come together and engage with community organizations, advocacy groups, and supportive businesses. You’ll find booths, stalls, and information centres where you can learn about resources, support networks, and activism opportunities.
    3. Pride Merchandise: Pride events often feature vendors and stalls selling a wide range of merchandise, including rainbow flags, clothing, accessories, pins, stickers, and various LGBTQ+ pride-themed items. It’s a chance to show your support and purchase items that represent your identity and pride.
    4. Workshops and Panel Discussions: Many Pride events also host educational workshops, panel discussions, and speaker sessions covering various LGBTQ+ topics, such as activism, health and wellness, legal rights, and social issues. These provide opportunities for learning, dialogue, and community empowerment.
    5. Visibility and Expression: Pride events are known for their acceptance and celebration of diverse identities. Attendees often express themselves through colourful costumes, unique fashion, body art, and creative displays of individuality. Pride is a space where people feel free to be themselves without judgment.
    6. Inclusive Environment: Pride events strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees. They promote acceptance, respect, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. You can expect a supportive atmosphere where you can celebrate, connect, and feel a sense of belonging.
  • What prides are taking place in the UK this weekend 5th and 6th July 2023

    What prides are taking place in the UK this weekend 5th and 6th July 2023

    The UK is home to over 170 pride events, you can find them listed over at THEPRIDESHOP’s handy pride calendar and this weekend there are 8 pride events to choose from Brighton to Belper, Cork to Ely.

    There’s no doubt that you’re never too far away from a Pride event in the UK. To find out a bit more about each pride taking place this weekend, click on the link below.

    5 August 2023Belper Pride 2023
    5 – 6 August 2023Brighton Pride 2023
    5 August 2023Plymouth Pride 2023
    5 August 2023Tonbridge Pride 2023
    6 August 2023Cork Pride 2023
    6 August 2023Ely Pride 2023
    6 August 2023Leeds Pride 2023
    6 August 2023Tewkesbury Pride 2023

    The first Pride event in the UK, known as the UK’s first official Gay Pride Rally, took place in London on July 1, 1972. 

    When was the first pride in the UK?

    The event, organized by the Gay Liberation Front, saw around 2,000 participants marching from Trafalgar Square to Hyde Park. It was a significant milestone in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and marked the beginning of an annual tradition of Pride celebrations in the UK.

    Since then, Pride events have grown in size, visibility, and importance, spreading to various cities and regions across the country. At last count, there were over 170 prides in the UK. The UK boasts two of the largest prides events in the world in London and Brighton. 

    What can you expect from a Pride in the UK?

    Attending a Pride event is a unique and vibrant experience that offers a wide range of activities and celebrations. While each Pride event may have its own distinct features, here are some common elements you can expect:

    LGBTQ+ Parades or March: Pride events often kick off with a colourful parade or march, where participants walk, dance, and celebrate through the streets. The parade showcases a diverse range of LGBTQ+ individuals, community organizations, allies, and floats representing different causes.

    What should I take to a Pride event?

    1) Raincoat

    CREDIT: chalabala / bigstock
    CREDIT: chalabala / bigstock

    Pack a raincoat. I know it’s not sexy – make it a Vivienne Westwood if you have to, but the British weather can not be relied upon to be good. Make sure it has a hood – hair straighteners won’t work in the middle of a field in a portaloo.

    2) Battery Powerpack

    Smartphones are amazing at capturing the moment whether it’s through pictures, face time or you being able to update your social about who’s doing who. The only problem is the battery never lasts long enough. So grab a power source.

    3) Medication

    Only the legal sort. Take painkillers. Nothing kills the moment than a stinking hideous headache caused by whatever this year’s headliner is supposed to be. Also take any meds you take on a daily basis. Take a 24 hour supply – just in case you don’t go back to yours.

    4) Secret Tenner

    Stuff it in your pants, or your socks or secret it away somewhere else. You’ll never know when it might come in handy.

    5) Uber

    If you find yourself in a place you don’t know summon an Uber cab. If your area doesn’t yet have Uber then make sure you know the local cab firm’s telephone number or download their app. Make sure you have enough battery on your phone to make that call.

    6) Sun protection

    Silhouette of muscle boy on beautiful hot background
    Silhouette of muscle boy on beautiful hot background

    Despite the fact that it’s overcast you can still get burnt to buggery so make sure you wear sunblock. If you’re looking for a sunblock that doesn’t go all white and sticky so you look like a sweaty pig – we suggest Image Skincare Prevention + daily matt moisturiser – expensive but well worth the extra.

    7) Condoms and lube

    colorful condom on white background seven day a week

    You might get lucky so bring some protection and you might even get lucky with more than one person so bring lots. If you don’t use them – share them with your mates – make sure they’re protected too!

    8) Spare undies

    CREDIT ©-Artmim Depositphotos
    CREDIT ©-Artmim Depositphotos

    If you end up at someone else’s place you might want to bring a spare pair of undies – you know so the walk of shame isn’t so Ewwww.

    9) Antibacterial lotion

    The last thing you want to do is pick up a bug from one of the many thousands of people who will attend Pride, so pick up some anti-bacterial lotion. Many of the portaloos provided at pride will also have anti-bacterial handwash for free.

    10) Ear plugs

    ©-Den.Barbulat-Depositphotos
    ©-Den.Barbulat-Depositphotos

    Protect your eardrums. Sounds from the stage could well permanently damage your hearing – with noises louder than a Jumbo Jet taking off.

  • Brighton Pride set to feature Steps, Black Eyed Peas and Mel C

    Brighton Pride 2023 is set to feature the Black Eyed Peas and Steps as headliners for the festival, with performances scheduled for August 5 and 6.

    Fans are eagerly anticipating the festival, one of the UK’s largest pride events, which will also feature performances by Zara Larsson, Jax Jones, and Melanie C.

    In the past, the event has featured other gay icons like Britney Spears, Kylie Minogue, Grace Jones, and Dua Lipa. The parade, which will take place on August 5, will have the theme “Love, Protest and Unity” and the additional challenge, “Dare to be different.”

    Tickets are available on the official website, with prices starting at £28.50 per day for Saturday or Sunday, and £48.50 for the entire weekend.

    The festival has also introduced a low-income ticket scheme to be mindful of the cost of living crisis.

    When is Brighton Pride 2023?

    Brighton Pride 2023 will take place from 4 August to 7 August. The parade through the city will take place on Saturday 5 August at 11am, with a route travelling from the seafront through the city centre up to Preston Park, where the festival takes place.

    Where can I get tickets for Brighton Pride?

    You can get tickets for Brighton Pride 2023 on the official Brighton Pride website. Ticket prices start at £28.50 per day for Saturday or Sunday, and £48.50 for the whole weekend. The website also offers a low-income ticket scheme for those who need it.

  • When is Pride Month 2022 and when is it in the UK?

    When is Pride Month 2022 and when is it in the UK?

    As 2022 looks to be a more successful year for Pride due to the lifting of all COVID-19 restrictions, we look at when Pride Month 2022 is and what it stands for

    When is Pride Month 2022 in the UK?

    After Pride season was all but wiped out in 2020 and for the majority if 2021 due to Coronavirus, it looks as though Pride in the UK is back with gusto for 2022.

    Many prides decided to postpone their events in 2020 and in 2021, but the majority of prides in the UK are planning a summer return, although some have moved dates and locations. You can keep up to date with The Pride Shops Pride Calendar, which is updated weekly.

    Officially Pride Month 2022 is in June to coincide with the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots and this year, prides across the UK will be celebrating an extra special anniversary, as it’s the 50th year of Pride in the UK.

    Where did Pride Month originate?

    Pride Month stemmed from the US, which has been adopted more widely across the world, but in reality, there are many Pride months across the globe. For instance, Sydney Mardi Gras, Australia’s biggest pride takes place in February (although they do have a Pride festival in June) and here in the UK, there isn’t such thing as one month for Pride. No, the UK is quite unusual in that Pride events are spread out across most of the year.

    In the US most prides happen in the month of June to coincide with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, in the UK however things are a little more spread out with more and more county, city and town prides becoming available.

    There are over 150 pride events in the UK alone and they start in Feb with the last (outside Winter Pride) in September. So Pride month in the UK is better described as Pride Half Year!

    Is there a pride month 2022 in the UK?
    In 2019 the town of Llanelli in South Wales celebrated it’s first pride.

    Want to know more about prides, see our entire collection of Pride articles here. Want to shop for Pride Merchandise, visit our partner retailer, THE PRIDE SHOP.

    You can find out what pride events are going ahead in 2021, by visiting The Pride Shop’s Pride Calendar for 2021.

  • What is Pride Month and when is it in the UK?

    What is Pride Month and when is it in the UK?

    As 2021 looks to be a more successful year for Pride across the UK, this is when it’s officially Pride Month in the UK.

    When is Pride Month in the UK?

    After Pride season was all but wiped out in 2020 due to Coronavirus, here’s hoping 2021 will be a little more successful for local prides around the UK.

    Many prides decided to postpone their events until 2021, so many will have the same theme or indeed entertainment acts and speakers that were planned for their 2020 festivals. Even now, many prides including Brighton Pride and Warwickshire, both are usually in August, have decided to cancel their events until 2022 at the earliest.

    Officially Pride Month is in June in 2021 to coincide with the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

    Where did Pride Month originate?

    Pride Month stemmed from the US, which has been adopted more widely across the world, but in reality, there are many Pride months across the globe. For instance, Sydney Mardi Gras, Australia’s biggest pride takes place in February (although they do have a Pride festival in June) and here in the UK, there isn’t such thing as one month for Pride.

    In the US most prides happen in the month of June to coincide with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, in the UK however things are a little more spread out with more and more county, city and town prides becoming available.

    There are over 150 pride events in the UK alone and they start in Feb with the last (outside Winter Pride) in September. So Pride month in the UK is better described as Pride Half Year!

    When is Pride Month in the UK
    In 2019 the town of Llanelli in South Wales celebrated it’s first pride.

    Want to know more about prides, see our entire collection of Pride articles here. Want to shop for Pride Merchandise, visit our partner retailer, THE PRIDE SHOP.

    You can find out what pride events are going ahead in 2021, by visiting The Pride Shop’s Pride Calendar for 2021.

  • Funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack reaches over £15,000

    Funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack reaches over £15,000

    The official fundraiser, created by Reading Pride to help the families of James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails who all sadly died after an attack in Reading has reached over £15,000.

    A fundraiser by Reading Pride on behalf of the victims of the incident in Forbury Park where three men sadly lost their lives nearly a month ago, has raised in excess of £15,000 to help with funeral costs and a permanent tribute. Over six hundred people have donated to the fundraiser, which at the time of publishing stood at £15,335.

    Permanent Tribute

    It is also hoped that the funds raised will go towards a permanent tribute to the three men in Forbury Gardens in Reading town centre, where the three were killed.

    The park has now reopened for reflection and tributes.

    The fundraiser page has a statement which reads,

    “With the tragic event within our community in Reading on Saturday 20th June 2020, we’re hoping to raise some money and funds to help support the families for funeral costs.

    “As well as a permanent tribute within Forbury Gardens, so everyone has a physical memento to remember the tragic loss of lives that have occurred.”

    Three died, multiple people were injured

    James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails were all enjoying an evening in Forbury Gardens when, according to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    Terror suspect, Khairi Saadallah is accused of murdering James Furlong, 36, David Wails, 49, and Joe Ritchie-Bennett, 39, on the evening of 20th June in Forbury Gardens. Saadallah is also charged with the attempted murder of three other people. His trial is set for late November.

    To donate, click here

  • When is Pride Month in the UK in 2021?

    When is Pride Month in the UK in 2021?

    As 2021 looks to be a more successful year for Pride across the UK, this is when it’s officially Pride Month in the UK.

    When is Pride Month in the UK?

    After Pride season was all but wiped out in 2020 due to Coronavirus, here’s hoping 2021 will be a little more successful for local prides around the UK.

    Many prides decided to postpone their events until 2021, so many will have the same theme or indeed entertainment acts and speakers that were planned for their 2020 festivals.

    Officially Pride Month is in June in 2021 to coincide with the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

    Where did Pride Month originate?

    Pride Month stemmed from the US, which has been adopted more widely across the world, but in reality, there are many Pride months across the globe. For instance, Sydney Mardi Gras, Australia’s biggest pride takes place in February (although they do have a Pride festival in June) and here in the UK, there isn’t such thing as one month for Pride.

    In the US most prides happen in the month of June to coincide with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, in the UK however things are a little more spread out with more and more county, city and town prides becoming available.

    There are over 150 pride events in the UK alone and they start in Feb with the last (outside Winter Pride) in September. So Pride month in the UK is better described as Pride Half Year!

    In 2019 the town of Llanelli in South Wales celebrated it’s first pride.

    Want to know more about prides, see our entire collection of Pride articles here. Want to shop for Pride Merchandise, visit our partner retailer, THE PRIDE SHOP.

  • Reading Pride creates funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack

    Reading Pride creates funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack

    An official fundraiser has been created by Reading Pride to help the families of James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails who all sadly died after an attack in Reading over the weekend.

    Reading Pride has already raised over £8,500 for the families of the three men who were killed in a terror incident. Nearly four hundred people have donated to the fundraiser, which has been created to help the families with the costs of the funerals.

    Permanent Tribute

    It is also hoped that the funds raised will go towards a permanent tribute to the three men in Forbury Gardens in Reading town centre, where the three were killed.

    The fundraiser page has a statement which reads,

    “With the tragic event within our community in Reading on Saturday 20th June 2020, we’re hoping to raise some money and funds to help support the families for funeral costs.

    “As well as a permanent tribute within Forbury Gardens, so everyone has a physical memento to remember the tragic loss of lives that have occurred.”

    Three died, multiple people were injured

    James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails were all enjoying an evening in Forbury Gardens when, according to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    Chief Constable of the Thames Valley Police said,

    “Following the tragic incident in Reading on Saturday night in which three innocent members of the public sadly lost their lives, I wanted to message our wider Thames Valley community to provide some reassurance at this difficult time.

    “At this time Thames Valley Police and Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), who are leading the investigation into the attack in Reading, do not believe there to be a wider risk to the public. I would like to reiterate that there is nothing to suggest that anyone else is involved in this offence and we are confident this is an isolated incident. In the past when there has been a terrorist attack, at home or abroad, we have seen the national terror threat level change increase. That has not happened in this case, which is confirmation of the security services assessment following this incident.

    “Nevertheless, I understand that this incident will have caused great concern and I would like to reassure you that my officers and staff continue to be present in your area, responding to emergencies and safeguarding the vulnerable. You may see more officers out and about during this time; do not be alarmed by this, they are there for your reassurance. Please do approach them if you have any questions or concerns.”

    To donate, click here

  • This drag queen just reminded us all why Prides need to be more inclusive of disabled people

    This drag queen just reminded us all why Prides need to be more inclusive of disabled people

    (C) THEGAYUK

    Credit where credit is due and we can all agree that in the last decade prides across the UK have become a lot more diverse and inclusive, but as one drag queen pointed out, you’ll probably not see much representation when it comes to disability.

    Sassi Afrika is a drag queen living with cerebral palsy, and she’s determined not to let it define her, but as a Tweet she wrote recently pointed out, you’re probably unlikely to find her (or other performers who are disabled) performing her act at any other pride aside from Warwickshire Pride, because as she says, “LGBT+ people with disabilities get overlooked”.

    Yesterday Sassi took to Twitter to write,

    “Coming to a Pride near you… Oh hang on, maybe not because LGBT+ people with disabilities get overlooked in favour of crowd pleasers and acts that aren’t even LGBT+. I’ll keep talking about this. Because this is life.”

    https://twitter.com/SassiAfrika/status/1236683472338587648

    Daniel Browne, the chair of Warwickshire Pride, a pride which has championed local acts and at least 75% LGBT+ representation on its stage wrote,

    “Sassi deserves more respect. And some Prides need to be more representative of the whole LGBT+ community. Less cishet (cis-gendered and hetrosexual) acts. More LGBT+ artists and diversity within that. And stop charging an entry fee.

    “An inclusive Pride should be a free Pride.”

    Sassi later added,

    “Gurrl I know I’ve been having a moan. But sometimes I gotta keep it real and say it how it is. We should all be more like that. Never put up with shit. Be you and speak the truth. Now, aren’t I looking gorgeous today.”

    https://twitter.com/SassiAfrika/status/1236985550382522368
  • When is Pride Month in the UK in 2020?

    When is Pride Month in the UK in 2020?

    Pride season in the UK starts around April and continues right through to September, so is there an actual “Pride Month”?

    When is Pride Month in the UK?

    Officially Pride Month is in June in 2020.

    Pride Month stemmed from the US, which has been adopted more widely across the world, but in reality, there are many Pride months across the globe. For instance, Sydney Mardi Gras, Australia’s biggest pride takes place in February (although they do have a Pride festival in June) and here in the UK, there isn’t such thing as one month for Pride.

    In the US most prides happen in the month of June to coincide with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, in the UK however things are a little more spread out with more and more county, city and town prides becoming available.

    There are over 150 pride events in the UK alone and they start in Feb with the last (outside Winter Pride) in September. So Pride month in the UK is better described as Pride Half Year!

    In 2019 the town of Llanelli in South Wales celebrated it’s first pride.

    Want to know more about prides, see our entire collection of Pride articles here. Want to shop for Pride Merchandise, visit our partner retailer, THE PRIDE SHOP.