LGBTQ+ Pride Month around the world is in June, celebrating the community and highlighting their past and present struggles faced worldwide.

Many people from all over the world travel to the UK to enjoy the various parades and festivals that take place – but not all the parades take place during Pride Month. This article contains the dates of the Pride Parades near our BSC colleges so you can make your plans in advance.

 

What is the UK like for LGBTQ+ people?

If you are studying in the UK, you can feel welcome and comfortable being yourself. For example, a 2023 poll revealed the majority (85%) of the British public say they would be supportive if their child, sibling or close family member came out as lesbian, gay or bisexual, while only 6% would not be supportive.

Seven in ten (71%) would feel the same about relative saying they were transgender or non-binary with one in eight (12%) saying they would not be supportive. These are some of the highest statistics in Europe.

Legal protections include:

– Same-sex marriage has been legal in the UK since 2014
– People are legally protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
– Transgender individuals may change their legal gender

Like anywhere, the LGBTQ+ community in the UK still faces challenges. Transgender people, in particular, often encounter significant barriers to healthcare and acceptance. Mental health issues also disproportionately affect the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the need for ongoing support and resources.

 

 

Pride Parades: A celebration and protest

Pride parades in the UK are vibrant celebrations of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. They are also an important protest, highlighting the ongoing fight for equality. They are an incredible party to see and experience, whether you are part of the community, or an ally. Here are the dates and highlights for some of the major Pride parades in 2024:

 

When is Brighton Pride?

Date: August 3-4, 2024

Brighton Pride is one of the UK’s most popular Pride events, known for its colourful parade, lively festival in Preston Park, and numerous parties throughout the city. The event also features performances by top artists and a community parade showcasing local LGBTQ+ groups.

 

When is Edinburgh Pride?

Date: June 22, 2024

Edinburgh Pride features a parade that winds through the historic streets of the city, followed by a festival at Bristo Square. The event includes live music, community stalls, and a family area, making it a welcoming celebration for all ages.

 

When is London Pride?

Date: June 29, 2024

London Pride is the largest Pride event in the UK, attracting over a million people each year. The parade travels through central London, culminating in a festival in Trafalgar Square. It includes performances, speeches, and stalls from various LGBTQ+ organisations.

 

When is Manchester Pride?

Date: August 23-26, 2024

Manchester Pride is a weekend-long event with a parade, the Pride Live music festival, and the candlelit vigil in Sackville Gardens, which pays tribute to those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS. The event is one of the UK’s most vibrant and well-attended Pride celebrations.

 

When is York Pride?

Date: June 8, 2024

York Pride is known for its inclusive and friendly atmosphere. The parade through the city is followed by a festival at the Knavesmire, featuring live entertainment, food stalls, and activities for families and children.

 

I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ community – can I study at BSC?

Of course – we welcome everyone at our colleges. We understand that cultures around the world are different, but here in the UK and at BSC we are proud to support the LGBTQ+ community however we can, and homophobia, transphobia, or any sort of bullying is not tolerated. If you are studying with us and need to talk about anything, our Student Experience team are here to listen and help you.