In a groundbreaking move, Stafford is gearing up to host its first-ever Pride festival this summer, marking a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community in Staffordshire and beyond. The festival, scheduled for Saturday, 10 August, is not just a celebration but a beacon of unity and diversity.
The event promises to be a vibrant display of inclusivity, with a parade and a series of “amazing acts” set to light up the main stage. According to the festival organisers, the objective is to enliven the streets of Stafford with an atmosphere of love, pride, and solidarity. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the LGBTQ+ community’s presence and contributions within Staffordshire.
Jack Taylor, the chairman of the event, emphasized the festival’s broader goal of community cohesion. “We’re not just uniting as Pride or as LGBT people, but as the entire town of Stafford,” he remarked. Highlighting the untapped potential of the local venues, Taylor pointed out that the festival is an opportunity to showcase the town’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
Set in the picturesque Victoria Park, the festival is envisioned as a grand celebration of unity. Taylor’s vision extends beyond mere festivities; he sees the event as a symbol of people standing together, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This stance is particularly significant in a world where the rights and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community are increasingly under the spotlight.
Stafford’s Pride festival follows the success of previous Pride events in the county, such as the 2023 Stoke-on-Trent Pride, which attracted thousands of attendees. These events have not only provided a platform for celebration but have also fostered a sense of community and belonging among LGBTQ+ individuals and allies alike.