The LGBTQ+ community in the North East of England is gearing up for a spectacular showcase of pride and solidarity. This year, the cities of Newcastle and Sunderland are poised to host reimagined Pride events, promising to be “unapologetically visible” in their celebrations. Organizers are determined to bring a fresh perspective to these iconic gatherings, ensuring they resonate deeply with both the LGBTQ+ community and the wider public.
Newcastle’s ‘Pride in the City’ is slated to be a landmark event, anticipated to attract around 80,000 attendees to the city’s core in July. This marks a significant shift from previous years, where celebrations were primarily held on the city’s outskirts. The theme of being “unapologetically visible” aligns perfectly with the event’s relocation to the city center, symbolizing a more integrated and prominent celebration of queer identity.
Sunderland’s Month-Long LGBTQ+ Festival
Sunderland is not far behind in its Pride preparations. The new charity Out North East is orchestrating a month-long festival in June, coinciding with International Pride Month. Sunderland’s array of events is inclusively designed, catering not just to the LGBTQ+ community but to the entire populace. With the full backing of the Sunderland Council and Sunderland BID, the festival promises a diverse program featuring celebrations, educational talks, and various activities. Graeme Miller, Sunderland council leader, emphasizes that the festival is a celebration for all, underlining the city’s commitment to equality and diversity.
The city’s Pride festival is poised to become an integral part of Sunderland’s cultural fabric, with Peter Darrant of Out North East expressing the collaborative spirit driving the event. Following Sunderland’s lead, similar celebrations are set to take place in South Tyneside and Gateshead in the subsequent months of July and August, extending the spirit of Pride across the region.
A New Chapter for Newcastle’s Northern Pride
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s Northern Pride, traditionally a peripheral event, is experiencing a transformation. The move into the heart of the city, particularly over the weekend of 19-21 July, is a bold statement of presence and inclusion. Ste Dunn, the event’s director, articulates the festival’s intent to celebrate the queer community’s vibrant culture, significant societal impact, and rich talents. This shift in location and perspective signifies a new chapter for Northern Pride, one that resonates with the core values of the LGBTQ+ movement while embracing a broader audience.
Newcastle City Council leader Nick Kemp echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of bringing the event into the city center. This move not only promises to increase participation but also integrates the celebration into the fabric of city life. The event is expected to unveil a lineup of artists and diverse activities, further underscoring its commitment to showcasing the multifaceted nature of the LGBTQ+ community.
Conclusion
This year’s Pride events in Newcastle and Sunderland represent more than just annual celebrations; they are a testament to the evolving recognition and integration of the LGBTQ+ community in the broader societal context. By moving into city centers and extending festivities over longer periods, these events are not just acknowledging LGBTQ+ identities but are celebrating them with unapologetic visibility and inclusiveness. As these cities set the stage for a summer of vibrancy and unity, they send a powerful message of solidarity and pride to the world.