Every June, we come alive with colour, celebration, and powerful calls for equality as we mark Pride Month, a time to honour the LGBTQ+ community, reflect on the progress made, and renew our commitment to a more inclusive future.

A History Rooted in Courage

Pride Month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City, a pivotal moment that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. In the UK, the first official Pride rally took place in London in 1972, and since then, the movement has blossomed into a vibrant national celebration of diversity.

From grassroots campaigns to landmark legislative victories like the repeal of Section 28 and the legalisation of same-sex marriage in England, Wales, and Scotland, Pride in the UK represents decades of resilience and hard-fought progress.

Why Pride Still Matters

Despite important legal and cultural advances, the fight for LGBTQ+ equality isn’t over. Discrimination, transphobia, and mental health disparities continue to affect many in the community. Pride Month serves as a reminder that inclusion must go beyond symbolic gestures; it must be reflected in everyday actions, policies, and attitudes.

Pride is also a powerful affirmation: everyone deserves to live authentically and love freely, without fear or shame.

Celebrating Across the UK

From London to Manchester, Brighton to Belfast, Pride events across the UK offer a space for celebration and resistance. Parades, art exhibitions, panels, and performances provide opportunities to lift LGBTQ+ voices and culture.

This year, many Pride events are embracing themes of intersectionality, highlighting the unique experiences of Black, disabled, and trans members of the community, emphasising that true equality means uplifting all voices.

With themes of Existence & Resistance at London Pride, Ravishing Rage in Brighton, and Love Unites at Manchester this year, regardless of the Pride event you go to, it will always be a celebration of resilience, spirit, passion, and unity. A place where we stand shoulder to shoulder, whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or a fabulous ally.

How You Can Show Support

Attend a Pride event: Join the festivities and show your support in person.

Support LGBTQ+ charities: Organisations like Stonewall, Mermaids, and LGBT Foundation do vital work year-round.

Educate yourself and others: Read, listen, and learn about LGBTQ+ history and issues.

Be an ally: Speak up against discrimination, support inclusive policies, and celebrate diversity in your workplace, school, and community.

Pride Is a Protest—And a Party

Pride is a vibrant mix of joy, resistance, and community. It’s a moment to celebrate love in all its forms, to honour those who came before us, and to push for a future where everyone can thrive, regardless of who they are or who they love.

Happy Pride Month, UK. Let’s keep marching forward, together.

Love all at Nice ‘n’ Naughty