Pride is a celebration of love and friendship, to show how far LGBTQ+ rights have come, and how much there is still to be done. It’s an opportunity to celebrate, to remember, and to be aware.

Across the country – and the world – different pride events and initiatives take place not only to celebrate the LGBTQ community, but as an act of allyship to understand the past struggles and work towards the future achievements, aiming for a better society together

It’s also about acceptance, love, colours and being proud of who you are!

Although London Pride will happen this year at the end of September (if nothing changes from latest government updates) at Newham we have our very own Pride in August, Forest Gayte Pride.

It is organised by a grassroots community based in Newham, working with allies and volunteers to engage with the local community through events and activities,aiming to enrich the LGBTQIA+ people in the neighbourhood, and also increase awareness within the allyship body.

Between 13-15^th August, Forest Gayte will host a series of events, in collaboration with local venues and the council. Talks, performances and activities will take place in a covid-secure and accessible frame, for everyone to feel welcome. You can find out more about the events at Forest Gayte Pride. Have a look at their funding options, and how to get involved in the project!

Celebrating queer culture in our neighbourhood is not only an opportunity to have fun and connect with our neighbours, but a moment to take pride in our community and see how to do things better as a whole. Newham is one of the most ethnically diverse boroughs in London, but we can’t say the same thing when it comes to gender and sexuality diversity, even when East London used to be “the place to be” for the queer community a few decades ago. The different LGBTQ associations and charities in East London are working to bring back that sentiment, and it’s time for Newham to do the same. Let’s have fun in Pride, but also understand why it exists and make everyone welcome.

Enjoy pride and be proud, Newham!

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