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Expect ‘large, visible’ police presence at Pride events after clash: Chief

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London’s police chief is speaking out about a confrontation at a weekend Pride event in the city that resulted in one man being charged with weapons offences and some in the LGBTQ+ community fearful of future clashes.

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London police say their hate-crime investigator is reviewing the “large physical altercation” at Wortley Road and Duchess Avenue, where the 2022 Wortley Pride festivities were unfolding. A witness said people in pickup trucks descended on the event, honking to drown out music and hurling homophobic slurs at those in attendance.

Police have not publicly identified the person charged.

“Let me be clear – the London Police Service will not tolerate acts of intolerance, bias or hate against any member of our community. Our community is rich with diversity, and every individual has a right to feel safe on our streets, and in our neighbourhoods,” police Chief Steve Williams said in a statement issued Monday afternoon.

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Police have described Saturday’s altercation as a “disturbance” and say it’s under investigation. Williams urged anyone with information or video footage of the events to share them with police.

London police will have a “large and visible presence” at this week’s Pride Festival, including the parade on Sunday, he added. On-duty officers will be there and other off-duty cops will be marching in the parade as participants, Williams said.

That’s been a flashpoint in London among the gay community. Pride London barred uniformed officers from marching in the parade several years ago, but welcomed back members of the London force last year.

Williams said safety will be a top priority at the festivities. “As with any large-scale event, we have a full operational plan in place to ensure the safety of participants and those who line the parade route in support.”

He added: “We will continue to work with Pride London throughout the week to ensure any Pride Week concerns are addressed so that all individuals are able to celebrate safely, and to offer our continued support to the LGBT2QIA+ community.”

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UPDATE: Disturbance at London pride event leads to arrest

Police at Wortley Pride (Image courtesy of viraguita via Twitter)


A man has been arrested and faces several criminal charges following an incident at the inaugural Wortley Pride Event.

The London Police Service (LPS) responded to an emergency call in South London at approximately 2:16 p.m. on Saturday.

Police said that a large altercation had taken place in the area of Wortley Road and Duchess Avenue during the pride celebration.

Members of the crowd reported on social media, that a man parked his truck in the street to prevent access to the event and  shouted anti-LGBTQ slurs.

Kathy Bell, the Wortley Pride Chair, said that she wasn’t a part of the initial confrontation, but was given reports of what happened from other festival-goers.

“I do know that an individual in a white truck, with Canadian Flags blowing in the bed of the truck, laid continuously on their horn as they drove up Duchess and down Wortley. I thought that would be the end of it, but they circled back around and then I saw them stop on Wortley,” Bell said. When the actual altercation began the police were contacted immediately.

She added that the event continued despite the interruption. “This incident demonstrates why we need to continue to raise awareness and educate the community. Love is Love!”

A walking parade and drag show followed the disturbance.

Bell said that the community want to see Wortley Pride return next year and, as of right now, that is the plan.

The investigation is ongoing and police ask that anyone with information call the LPS at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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San Diego Pride kicked off weekend events with parade, festival

San Diego Pride kicked off weekend events with parade, festival

As San Diego Pride Week continues, thousands of residents partook in the return of the annual in-person Pride Parade and Festival in Balboa Park Saturday.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria marched in the parade, which began at 10 a.m. at the Hillcrest Pride Flag, 1500 University Ave. Gloria is the first openly LGBTQ person to be elected mayor of San Diego.

“Pride brings us together in times of protest, mourning, victory and celebration,” said Fernando Lopez, San Diego Pride executive director. “Pride helps connect us to community and our found family. Pride gives us access to life-saving direct services and provides grant funding to our local and global LGBTQ community.

“I’m inspired by the thought of our community coming together again,” he continued. “Together we will continue to pursue justice with joy.”

Weekend events kicked off at 8 a.m. with the San Diego Pride 5k Walk/Run on Saturday, which began at the corner of Centre and University Avenue in Hillcrest. Last year, despite the pandemic, more than 1,300 runners and walkers from around the world participated and raised $24,000 for SD Pride’s charity partners.

San Diego Pride’s Parade and Festival is the fourth largest such event in the nation, event organizers said, and hosted more than 350,000 attendees in 2019. Past festivals have featured headliners such as Kesha, TLC, Melissa Etheridge, and En Vogue.

In 2020, San Diego Pride held the first Pride Live where 400,000 people tuned in to celebrate the LGBTQ community. In 2021, San Diego Pride held over 40 hybrid virtual and in-person events, with more than 100,000 attendees throughout Pride week.

Since its founding, San Diego Pride has granted over three million dollars back to the local and international LGBTQ+ community from the revenue generated by the annual events.

“LGBTQ diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our efforts to invite people to our vibrant city because when people feel welcome, they want to visit,” said Julie Coker, president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. “That is why we are so excited San Diego Pride is scheduled to return in 2022. It will highlight our friendly, inclusive spirit while attracting visitors to our hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions and boosting our local tourism economy.”

The parade ends at Laurel Street, where the entrance to the Pride Festival is located. The two-day festival begins at 11 a.m. in Balboa Park, with live music on four stages, including Ashnikko, Baby Tate, Daya and Snow Tha Product.

The complete lineup consists of more than 100 LGBTQ+ entertainers, organizers said.

“Our goal at this year’s Pride Festival is to predominantly feature our fiercely talented local LGBTQ community,” Lopez said. “We are thrilled to come together again for our first in-person Pride Festival in three years, where our artists and entertainers help us be seen, be heard, find family, raise funds, build capacity, and carve out the space for us all to be unapologetically our true, authentic selves.”

The 2022 San Diego Pride Festival and related events are underway this weekend amid an uptick of public health and safety concerns.

The festival also includes educational and art exhibits, vendors, interactive cultural presentations, local food, HIV testing, children and youth areas and more.

“We are still fighting for justice and that takes away from our joy,” said Mila Jam, one of Saturday’s performer and a Black and transgender advocate. “We need each other now more than ever to stand strong and see liberation through.”

The San Diego Public Library will get in on the fun as well, releasing a limited-edition library card with a design created by Crawford High School student Leslie Pagel. It features an illustration of Marsha Johnson in front of New York City’s Stonewall Inn. Johnson was a gay and trans rights activist and one of the prominent figures in the Stonewall uprising of 1969.

“I wanted to honor her and the work she did for the community,” Pagel said. “She was alive during a time when trans people were heavily misunderstood, yet they were the ones to carry much of the community’s fight towards liberation.”

The library will have a booth at the Pride Festival. More information can be found at www.sandiego.gov/public-library/lgbt.

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London police arrest one after ‘physical altercation’ at Pride event

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A man was arrested Saturday afternoon following a disruption at a London Pride event, police say.

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It was about 2:15 p.m. when police say officers responded to an emergency call regarding a large disturbance at Wortley Road and Duchess Avenue, where an event that’s part of Pride week in London was being held in Wortley Village. They made public few other details.

“A large physical altercation took place in the surrounding area. Upon police arrival, a male has been taken into police custody for several criminal charges . . . he was not a part of the festivities,” police said in a statement.

The investigation was ongoing, and police were asking anyone who may have information or video of the incident to please contact them at 519-661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

It’s been an ugly few months in Southwestern Ontario regarding anti-LGBTQ incidents. In Norwich, a small town just south of Woodstock, Pride flags were stolen and a man from Tillsonburg, Jake Dey, was charged. Dey then gave a 30-minute address at a Norwich Township council meeting, during which he compared the Pride movement to Nazi Germany.

About 100 local citizens attended the most recent township council meeting, last week, and demanded the mayor’s resignation for allowing the remarks. The mayor, Larry Martin, has refused to resign.

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Saturday’s event appeared to draw a large crowd. It’s part of week-long Pride festivities that will wrap up next Sunday, July 24, with a parade.

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Sensational Pride suggestions: Event inspiration to help enjoy Halifax Pride Festival to the fullest | SaltWire

Sensational Pride suggestions: Event inspiration to help enjoy Halifax Pride Festival to the fullest | SaltWire

From its iconic Pride Parade to beloved sports spectacles like Dykes vs Divas Softball Game and dance parties such as The Bump, the Halifax Pride Festival has established many standout events. However, if you’re not checking Halifax Pride Festival’s online calendar, you are missing out on a whole host of other exciting happenings.

Featuring a plethora of events organized by both Halifax Pride and various community organizations, Halifax Pride Festival’s online calendar is the go-to resource to ensure your pride celebrations are as complete and relevant to you as possible. From social and artistic gatherings to newcomer moments and displays of activism, there’s something for everyone under the 2SLGBTQIA+ umbrella.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s look at some of the exciting events happening each day during this year’s Halifax Pride Festival.


JULY 14

Halifax ProPride

This one is for the professional community.

Join Pride at Work Canada for an evening of networking and connecting with diversity, equity and inclusion leaders, 2SLGBTQIA+ professionals and job seekers at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. Featuring a panel discussion focused on building inclusive workplaces based on gender expression and identity, the night will also include a lively networking reception. Best of all, the event can be accessed in-person and via live stream.

When: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21


JULY 15

Rainbow Refugees BBQ

Newcomers (and locals) are encouraged to come with their appetites for this tasty treat.

The Rainbow Refugee Association of Nova Scotia (RRANS), an organization dedicated to safe and supportive 2SLGBTQIA+ refugee resettlement in Nova Scotia, is hosting “Queering the World: Welcome BBQ” for the 2SLGBTQIA+ newcomer community and the larger Halifax Pride community to mix, mingle, and celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities here and around the world. The BBQ offerings include chicken and veggie options paired with music from around the world and great conversation.

When: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Where: Garrison Grounds


JULY 16

Workout with North Endurance

Everybody is invited to this morning workout sure to help with keeping fit for the non-stop pride celebrations.

Join the team and community from North Endurance (home of West Street CrossFit) at the Halifax Common (near the North Common public washroom along Cunard Street) for a free outdoor workout. All are welcome — regardless of fitness level, with instructors available to help participants adjust or modify the workout to best fit individual needs and abilities.

When: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Where: Halifax Common (North Park and Cogswell)


JULY 17

Halifax Pride Comedy Show

Everyone in need of a laugh should hit up this hilarious show.

The Halifax Pride Comedy Show is back with an incredible lineup of out-of-towners and a few familiar faces to the Halifax comedy scene. Inviting audiences to enjoy a drink and entertainment under the stars, the event is hosted by Halifax’s very own Trina James and headlined by Brandon Ash-Mohammed.

When: 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Where: Garrison Grounds


JULY 18

Pride March

This march puts the activism in pride.

Join Halifax Pride and mobilize in support of gender-affirming care at this year’s annual Pride March. The one-kilometre route will end at Peace & Friendship Park, where marchers will observe and participate in a candlelight vigil. Attendees are encouraged to bring signs or make one at a sign-making event at the Garrison Grounds just before the march.

When: 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Province House (Granville St)

Beading Workshop

Craft lovers are encouraged to visit this workshop.

Join this event hosted by the Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance for a unique experience with a focus on Indigenous culture and craft art. Attendees will be walked through the steps of creating their own beaded masterpiece to take home. Individuals interested in learning more about Indigenous culture are in luck as this is the first of several Two-Spirited events during July 18, 20 and 21 — all with a focus on Indigenous identity and expression in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Garrison Grounds


JULY 19

Decolonizing Gender and Sexuality from a Jewish Perspective: An Online Class

People of the Jewish faith (and those with interest in it) will surely learn something new about their religion at this online event, like how Judaism believes that there are more than two genders.

Listen in to lecturer Rabbi Dr. N Siritsky, MSSW, RSW, BCC — Atlantic Canada’s first queer and non-binary rabbi leading the newly forming virtual community “Reform Judaism in Atlantic Canada.” Viewers are invited to witness the trail-blazing rabbi discuss traditional and contemporary Jewish understandings of gender and sexuality in the Bible, Talmud and beyond.

When: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: Online video chat


JULY 20

Youth Queer Prom

Queer youth are invited to a prom of their very own.

Hosted by the Youth Project, the Queer prom is a dance event open to 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 19 and under, welcoming attendees to a space focused on allowing queer-identified youth to be themselves and dance the night away. Best of all, the dress code is ‘wear what you feel best in’ — however, Gay Sailors is this year’s theme for those who love a bit of structure. Chaperones will also be on hand at this drug/alcohol-free space.

When: 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Where: Garrison Grounds


JULY 21

Pride In Homeownership Workshop

Prospective homeowners should definitely attend this information-packed session.

Join Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team and friends as they deliver knowledge that will help attendees on their journeys towards homeownership. Topics covered include the benefits of using a mortgage broker, understanding the impact of credit, assets and income, stereotypes in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Halifax real estate and what individuals need to know about real estate law.

When: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: 5151 George Street


JULY 22

PRIDE LIVE: LHM Records Showcase

Local music listeners will love this showcase.

Check out LHM Records (a Maritime-based label that believes in equitable treatment of artists and the power and importance of music) and its incredible roster of musicians, including Hillsburn, Kim Harris, Keeper E. and WAANTS as they perform sensational setlist (and bring out a few special guests). Best of all, the concert is 100 per cent free; just be sure to register online.

When: 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Where: Grand Oasis Stage (Grand Parade)


JULY 23

So Fetch! Dog Walk

This walk will do dogs and their owners some good.

Take part in this event co-hosted by TD Bank and walk Shubie Park for a brisk hour-long stroll which includes a mid-way break at the park’s off-leash beach area. Following the adventure, walkers are invited to enjoy some refreshments and conversation with fellow dog-lovers at the park’s parking lot.

When: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where: Shubie Park


JULY 24

Dis-Drag! & Dragtopia Presents: An All Ages Drag Show

Kids (and kids at heart) will love this family-friendly spectacle.

Take in the magic of childhood favourites with Dis-Drag! and Dragtopia, who have joined forces to produce an all-ages drag show featuring Disney-inspired acts. With pay-what-you-can admission, it’s the perfect opportunity to support local queens and maybe even win a prize provided by Venus Envy.

When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: The Bus Stop Theatre

Of course, there are many more exciting events happening during this year’s Halifax Pride Festival. To see them all, visit https://www.halifaxpride.com/calendar.

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Muskoka Pride Week kicks off next week with full slate of events

Muskoka Pride Week kicks off next week with full slate of events

Following two years of restrictions, organizers are ‘beyond thrilled to once again host the annual Festival and Parade in downtown Bracebridge’

NEWS RELEASE

MUSKOKA PRIDE COMMUNITY

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Muskoka Pride has announced that the 2022 Muskoka Pride Week will run from July 14 to July 24. The annual week of activities celebrates the Muskoka lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community. 

This year’s Pride celebration is a return to pre-pandemic events, including the first Festival and Parade since 2019, explains Merv Taylor-Morin, president of Muskoka Pride. 

“For the past two years, we have continued to celebrate Pride Week in smaller ways, following the COVID restrictions in place at the time. We are beyond thrilled to once again host the annual Festival and Parade in downtown Bracebridge this year,” Taylor-Morin said.

Muskoka Pride board member Shawn Forth explains: “It is so important for members of the LGBTQ+ community to see themselves represented in the greater community. When you identify as LGBTQ+ and grow up in a small community, you can feel isolated and as if you are the only one. It is important for there to be LGBTQ+ visibility in our communities.” 

Forth explains that just last month, Muskoka Pride donated rainbow benches to all municipalities in Muskoka to help ensure a year-round visible symbol of the commitment to diverse and inclusive communities. The funding was provided through the District of Muskoka’s Community Enhancement grant. 

IN-PERSON EVENTS 

Muskoka Pride Week will feature in-person events throughout Muskoka over 11 days. 

Pride Week starts off with the theatrical production Twelfth Night by Timberbeast Productions on Thursday, July 14, at the Gravenhurst Wharf gazebo. 

The party starts on Friday, July 15, with Disco Muskoka. In partnership with the Huntsville Theatre Company, Muskoka Pride is hosting a disco party at Canvas Brewery in Huntsville. Tickets are available on the HTC website. 

Pride Church Services will be held on July 17 at Trinity United Church in Gravenhurst and on July 24 at Bracebridge United Church.

On Thursday, July 21, Bracebridge Hall will host MQFF After Dark, a film screening for 19+ which features films from this year’s Muskoka Queer Film Festival that could not be broadcast due to content. Tickets are available on the Muskoka Pride Website or pay at the door. 

FLAG RAISINGS 

All municipalities in Muskoka will be raising the Progress Pride flag on Monday, July 19. Members of the public are encouraged to join us for ceremonies at their local municipality office to celebrate the annual flag raising. 

DRAG SHOWS 

Muskoka Drag Royalty is holding four events this year, including Drag Trivia at Bracebridge Barrelhouse on July 18, a 19+ show at Sawdust City Brewery on July 22, and two all-ages shows on July 20 and July 24. 

FAMILY EVENTS 

Muskoka Pride has taken great care to ensure that many events are geared toward the entire family. Many families participate to show their allyship with the community, to support their LGBTQ+ family members, and as an opportunity for their families to experience their first Pride Festival. 

The annual Six Mile Lake boat parade will take place on Saturday, July 16, at 6 Mile Lake in Georgian Bay Township, starting at 1 p.m. 

The annual Rainbow Road Tour on Sunday, July 17, which was first introduced during the pandemic, will take place again. It is a great opportunity for the entire family to tour around Lake Muskoka. This year’s route will incorporate some of the newly installed rainbow benches and will end with a BBQ and musical performance at Muskoka Brewery. 

Tuesday, July 19, is Pride Night at the Muskoka Drive-In. Featuring three short films from the Muskoka Queer Film Festival (MQFF) and the feature film Dawn, Her Dad, and the Tractor, tickets are available on the Muskoka Pride website or pay cash at the gate.

On Thursday, July 21, the 10th annual Muskoka Pride Mini-Golf Tournament will be held at Northern Escapades Mini Putt. Families and individuals can golf for a special rate between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and try for their chance at the trophy. 

Two Drag Shows are planned, which are aimed at all ages: Wednesday, July 20, a Driveway Drag Show is planned at a private residence in Bracebridge, and the Memorial Park Drag Show is planned as part of the annual Pride Festival on Sunday, July 24. Both shows feature many local performers from Muskoka Drag Royalty. 

Muskoka Bay Resort is hosting a Pride Pool Party on Saturday, July 23, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. It will feature live music, games, prizes, and food. Admission is free. Please contact the resort to add your name to the guest list. 

FESTIVAL AND PARADE 

For the first time since 2019, Muskoka Pride will host the annual Pride Festival in Memorial Park on Sunday, July 24t, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring vendors, live music, and activities for the family. The band Dirty Little Swing Thing will be performing under the bandshell, and local singer Briar Summers will be performing on a second stage. Muskoka Drag Royalty will be hosting a drag show starting at 2:30 p.m. 

The annual Pride Parade will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Manitoba Street. This year, the parade will be starting at Memorial Park and going through downtown Bracebridge. 

Everyone, no matter how you identify, is welcome to attend Muskoka Pride events. 

Muskoka Pride receives funding from the Government of Canada through the Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage grant. 

We would like to thank our Silver Sponsors: The Town of Bracebridge, YWCA Muskoka, TD Ready Commitment, Muskoka Bay Resort, and Deerhurst Resort. We would also like to acknowledge our Bronze Sponsors: McMaster’s Muskoka, Lakeland Networks and our Media Sponsor: Star Metroland Media. 

To see a full schedule of events, visit this website or click “Events” on the Muskoka Pride Facebook Page.

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Police say they’re ready to keep huge events such as San Diego Pride and Comic-Con safe

Police say they're ready to keep huge events such as San Diego Pride and Comic-Con safe

When it comes to reasons to be worried over the coming weeks, local law enforcement can take its pick. The deadly attack on Fourth of July paradegoers in Highland Park, Illinois, is still fresh in people’s minds. And, in June, during Pride Month, there were a number of disturbing incidents, including what police say appeared to be a plan for a sizable attack on a Pride event in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. Police arrested 31 members of a white nationalist group.

On Thursday, San Diego police sought to reassure the public about security at events happening here this month.

“Safety is our No. 1 for the San Diego Police Department,” Lt. Jonathan Lowe said.

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Roland Lizarondo

The Pride Flag is shown in Hillcrest on July 7, 2022.

In the shadow of Hillcrest’s massive Pride flag on Thursday, Lowe provided a note of reassurance, talking about security preparations for San Diego Pride next week and Comic-Con a week later.

“We’re going to have uniformed officers and nonuniformed officers in the crowd, always watching over the parade route, the festival and the associated parties around Hillcrest. Same goes for Comic-Con as well,” Lowe said.

In the case of Pride, police are getting some extra help from the Hillcrest Business Association. Ryan Bedrosian, the owner of Rich’s nightclub, sits on the association board.

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Roland Lizarondo

Artwork is shown on the patio of Rich’s in Hillcrest on July 7, 2022.

He said he and his fellow Hillcrest business owners had been talking recently about how to make sure security this year is tighter than ever.

“Our exits are clear, properly well-lit. Our security staff is on point. We have extra security guards — they’re trained. So those are things that we always take into consideration, but obviously more so on Pride weekend,” said Bedrosian.

The security of big events came up this week when San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria appeared on KPBS Midday Edition.

“It is frustrating to have this threat of violence across the nation impacting this event,” Gloria said.

But the mayor also said he was confident in law enforcement’s ability to keep people safe.

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Roland Lizarondo

One of many fire hydrants painted in pride colors around Hillcrest is shown on July 7, 2022.

“I have full faith in our San Diego Police Department, as well as our regional law enforcement partners,” Gloria said.

But, even with all the reassuring words, there is still that nagging reality that a person with a gun determined to cause mayhem and violence — can. That’s why the words that came into our lexicon after 9/11 still ring true today: If you see something that doesn’t look right, say something.

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Pride brings more than a million people to London – live

Pride brings more than a million people to London - live

Pride in London is returning to the capital for the first time since 2019, celebrating 50 years since the very first march took place in 1972.

More than one million people are expected to descend on the capital for the parade, which begins from 12pm on Saturday (2 July).

According to the organisers, 30,000 people have registered to join the march from more than 600 LGBT+ community groups.

The parade is an “opportunity for expression of celebration, joy and triumph but also the voice to rightly express the continued fight for those injustices and inequalities that exist among us,” Pride in London said.

Those marching today will be calling on the UK government to ban conversion therapy for all LGBT+ people, reform the Gender Recognition Act, and provide equal protection for LGBT+ communities against hate crime.

They are also calling for an end to “hostile environment towards minority migrants”, and for the establishment of a national Aids memorial to remember those who died during the HIV and Aids epidemic.

The Independent is the official publishing partner of Pride in London 2022.

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Cast of Heartstopper spotted at Pride in London

The cast of Netflix teenage comedy-drama Heartstopper have been photographed taking part in the Pride in London parade.

The cast of Heartstopper (L-R) Kit Connor, Joe Locke, Tobie Donovan and Sebastian Croft attend Pride in London

(Getty Images)

The popular show’s stars, Joe Locke, Kit Connor, Tobie Donovan, Sebastian Croft, Kizzy Edgell, and Corinna Brown took pictures while smiling and sitting on one another’s backs, draped in LGBT+ flags.

The cast of Heartstopper (L-R) Joe Locke, Jenny Walser, Kit Connor, Sebastian Croft, Tobie Donovan, Corinna Brown and Kizzy Edgell attend Pride in London 2022

(Getty Images)

Heartstopper is a British coming-of-age series that follows a budding romance between Charlie Spring (Joe Locke) and Nick Nelson (Kit Connor), as they navigate coming out in high school.

Joe Locke attends Pride in London 2022

(Getty Images)

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The Independent’s Voices team attends Pride in London

The Independent’s very own Voices team is at Pride in London.

Victoria Richards and Harriet Williamson are marching alongside other LGBT+ campaigners and activists, waving The Independent’s Pride flags as well as the Ukraine flag.

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Crowds gather as Pride gets underway

Thousands of people have gathered in central London to show their support for LGBT+ people and watch the Pride in London parade as it gets underway.

Many have arrived decked out in rainbow-coloured clothing, accessories, hair colours and more, waving flags and cheering as marchers go past.

(PA)

(Getty Images)

(PA)

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Sadiq Khan attends Pride in London

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has made an appearance at Pride in London, ahead of the parade.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaking to the media before the Pride in London parade

(PA)

He said: “We’re back after the last two and a half years or so. This year is the 50th anniversary of Pride, celebrating this community, celebrating the progress made, but also continuing to campaign and never be complacent.

“We saw this time last week an attack in Oslo just hours before that parade, where two people lost their lives and more than 20 were injured.

“So, we’ve got to be conscious of the fact that there’s still a danger to this community of discrimination, bias and violence. But allies like me are really important to support this community.”

“I’m quite clear, we’re marching today for an open, inclusive accepting world. We’re marching today for those in Oslo, for those who haven’t made the progress we’ve made.

“We’re also marching today for love. I’m quite clear, here in this great city we should be a beacon of inclusiveness, of openness, but also a place where you can be free to be who you want to be and free to love who you want to love.”

Khan added that the Metropolitan Police have been “sensitive” over concerns about uniformed officers taking part in the parade.

“I think it’s really important that anybody who’s from the LGBT community should be able to take part in this parade,” he said.

“Clearly, the community does have concerns around policing, we saw with the Stephen Port investigation the concerns that arose from the inquest and from the families of the four men who lost their lives.

“I think the police have been sensitive to the issues raised by the community and there will be uniformed officers in and around Pride to make sure we’re all safe, to make sure this parade is a success.

“But, clearly, those taking part in the parade from the police service won’t be wearing the uniforms.”

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Angela Rayner: ‘Pride is a protest but the story is love’

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has tweeted her support for Pride in London.

She posted a photograph of herself at a previous Pride parade, and said she is “looking forward” to this year’s event.

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‘Being gay is a glitter’

Mohammed Nazir, 24, from Bangladesh, who is with campaign group Rainbows Across Borders, said he wanted to dedicate this year’s pride to those forced to still hide their sexuality.

(PA)

He told the PA news agency: “Pride is about self-affirmation, dignity and equality. It is a way to meet some other LGBTQ people. Pride is a movement where we’re still fighting for our rights.”

He added: “It’s all of the people’s hard work and dedication that we are now not scared to express our true identity, but still there are so many countries where people are not able to express their true identity because of the country’s law, because of the government’s rule, or because of the cultures and disbelief.

“So, this Pride I would like to dedicate to those people who are still hiding their sexuality and I would like to send them a message that we didn’t choose to be gay, this is how we were born, and we should pride ourselves because being gay is a glitter, and if you hide your sexuality day by day you feel stress and you always feel a lack of confidence and lots of mental issues, and when you come out it will help you … be who you are.”

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Berlin mosque becomes ‘first’ in Germany to fly rainbow flag for Pride

A mosque in Berlin has said that it is the first German mosque to fly the rainbow flag in support of LGBT+ communities, as Pride begins.

The Ibn Rushd-Goethe mosque, which claims to be the only “liberal” mosque in the country, unfurled the symbolic flag in front of a small audience on Friday (1 July).

Berlin’s culture senator Klaus Lederer and state chairman Kai Wegner were present for the ceremony, where attendees wore badges with the slogan: “Love is halal.”

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In pictures: Pride marchers prepare for parade

The Pride in London parade will begin at 12pm, and many marchers are getting ready for the day of celebration, protest and solidarity ahead.

See photographs of volunteers and activists preparing to let their rainbow flags fly:

Veteran gay rights activists address the gathering during an event to mark fifty years since the first UK Pride March

(Getty Images)

Gay rights activist Lanah P poses for a photo

(Getty Images)

A gay rights activist attaches a new badge

(Getty Images)

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Celebrity Gogglebox stars in tears watching Big Boys coming out scene for Pride special

The stars of Celebrity Gogglebox were left in tears after watching the coming out scene from Big Boys.

Friday (1 July) night’s episode of the Channel 4 series was a Pride special and saw a group of LGBTQ+ celebrities and their loved ones tune into the week’s biggest shows.

Our Culture Reporter Isobel Lewis has the story:

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Over a million expected in London for first Pride march since pandemic began

More than a million people are expected to descend on the capital for Pride in London on Saturday.

It will be the first time the event has been held since the outbreak of the pandemic and is the 50th anniversary of the UK’s first ever Pride parade.

The event, which organisers are calling the “biggest and most inclusive event in history”, will also feature a line-up of artists performing across four stages around Central London.

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The best Pride events taking place across the England and Wales

The best Pride events taking place across the England and Wales
Time to celebrate (Picture: NURPHOTO)

The rainbow has landed! Pride is sweeping the nation with post-Covid celebrations scheduled across the Queendom.

London is celebrating its half-century, Brighton has signed up the biggest names and Manchester… well, Manchester will always be special.

From major metropolises to tiny towns, the nation has turned rainbow and body glitter is ready to sparkle on every front room carpet.

But what will you wear?

Pride is back, bigger and bolder than ever before. Here’s the top pick of events around the country…

Birmingham

When you wangle Steps to headline your Pride celebrations, you know you’re doing a good job.

That’s just one of the attractions at the new Smithfield site, which is mere, ahem, steps from the Gay Village, the 12-acre site where up to 20,000 LGBTQ+s are expected to take in the attractions from the Cabaret Stage to the Dance Arena.

September 23-25

Cambridge

Details are as yet to be finalised but going by what went down in 2019, we can expect a return of the UK’s first ever Pride River Parade, you know, like they do in Amsterdam.

Expect the River Cam to be taken over by punts decorated in rainbow colours to represent the diversity of the local LGBTQ scene.

The rest of the fun happens on Jesus Green.

July 9

Leeds

It’s Yorkshire’s biggest LGBTQ+ day out and, they reckon, the UK’s friendliest Pride with The Robert Payne Parade set to be mega with everyone from TransLeeds through Frontrunners to The Prince’s Trust currently designing outfits and floats as we speak.

And never mind that they have a stage, a whole roster of acts and a marketplace, they’re sticking by their commitment to keep Pride free to all comers.

August 7

Birmingham Pride is always a great day (Picture: Shutterstock)

Liverpool

Pride in Liverpool is not just a pre-requisite for living there, it’s also an event that is back after a two-year gap. There’s a parade and a party centred around the Tithebarn Street festival hub, which is dead handy for the local Pride Quarter, where it all goes on.

With many details still to settle, the main stage is sponsored by Barclays and the event is still free for everyone to attend.

July 30

Newcastle

They call it Northern Pride, which seems a bit presumptuous, but we reckon they can live up to it with a line-up that includes Melanie C left, Joe McElderry and a Taste of Ibiza.

With a rallying cry of ‘Remember, Resist, Rise Up’, a return of the popular dog show, a Fourth Plinth to showcase trans and non-binary talent and a launch party starring Todrick Hall, Jodie Harsh and Bimini of Drag Race fame on the Friday, it’s set to be a humdinger.

July 22-24

Dress up and go big (Picture: Getty Images Europe)

Cardiff

The Pride Cymru Big Weekend, two days of Welsh-style shenanigans with a mile-long parade, three stages and all the bars and street food you could wish for in and around Cardiff City Hall Lawns, is set to draw 50,000 people over two days making it the biggest Pride event in the Principality. And while it’s ticketed, it’s only a tenner.

August 27-28

Brighton

A bit of a two-part celebration is what Brighton does best with the parade through the streets in the morning then either the Pride Village Party in town or a major decamp to We Are Fabuloso in Preston Park for the two-day, big-name entertainment, fun-fair, dance tents, drinking and general carrying on.

The names this year? Well how about Christine blinking Aguilera, if you don’t mind, Jake Shears, Paloma Faith, Ella Henderson, Todrick Hall…

August 5-7

London will celebrate their 50th anniversary of Pride this year (Credits: Alamy Stock Photo)

London

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first march back in 1972 (though how they marched in those platform boots is anyone’s guess), Pride in London is returning to its original route, from Marble Arch, down Park Lane, Piccadilly onto Trafalgar Square…

The main stage hosts Ava Max and Emeli Sandé, among others, while Leicester Square (female, trans and gender-neutral only) and Dean Street stages each have a huge roll call of stars, too – guaranteeing a mass drinkathon throughout the streets of Soho. It’s going to get messy.

July 2

Manchester Pride in full swing (Picture: Shirlaine Forrest)

Manchester

The August Bank Holiday has always belonged to Manchester, who pull out the biggest, most fun parade in the whole of the Northern Powerhouse (look out for the Coronation Street float!) with a 2022 theme of March for Peace.

There’s also a Candlelit Vigil, to remember those the LGBTQ+ community lost to Aids, the ticketed Gay Village Party, where Canal Street and environs go off and Superbia Weekend, an alcohol-free celebration of queer culture.

The concert idea from 2019 has been scrapped but hundreds of artists have been promised.

August 26-29

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MORE : Will Young, Cheryl Hole and Megan Barton Hanson celebrate at Metro’s 50 years of Pride party


MORE : These are the best Pride events coming up in London this week



Metro.co.uk celebrates 50 years of Pride

This year marks 50 years of Pride, so it seems only fitting that Metro.co.uk goes above and beyond in our ongoing LGBTQ+ support, through a wealth of content that not only celebrates all things Pride, but also share stories, take time to reflect and raises awareness for the community this Pride Month.

And we’ve got some great names on board to help us, too. From a list of famous guest editors taking over the site for a week that includes Rob Rinder, Nicola Adams, Peter Tatchell, Kimberly Hart-Simpson, John Whaite, Anna Richardson and Dr Ranj, as well as the likes of Sir Ian McKellen and Drag Race stars The Vivienne, Lawrence Chaney and Tia Kofi offering their insights. 

During Pride Month, which runs from 1 – 30 June, Metro.co.uk will also be supporting Kyiv Pride, a Ukrainian charity forced to work harder than ever to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community during times of conflict, and youth homelessness charity AKT. To find out more about their work, and what you can do to support them, click here.

For Metro.co.uk‘s latest Pride coverage, click here.