Pride, the LGBTQ+ community and the National Trust

Chelsey

Pride in London

As the UK's largest and longest running Pride – marching through the streets of London with 30,000 other members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies is a deeply humbling experience, and the day each year that I feel the most proud to work at the National Trust and wear the rainbow Oakleaf!

Part-protest, part-celebration – the parade is a time where we can visibly show our active allyship and demonstrate our commitment to being 'for everyone, for ever'. In front of a million annual attendees, it's a truly amazing experience for everyone involved, and the warm and heartfelt reception we receive from the crowd is always energising for our staff and volunteers for the months ahead.

It's been an absolute honour to coordinate the Trust's representation for Pride in London and share the wealth of authentic queer histories – past, present and future with the public.

Emily

Rural Pride events

Growing up in a rural market town in the early 2000s, I found there was very little queer representation. No Prides, no spaces, no LGBTQ+ education in school – nothing really. It can be a lonely experience. This is why smaller, local Prides are so important, especially for young people who often can’t get out to the big cities.

I'm so delighted to see events such as Cirencester Pride emerge in the last few years, and the huge number of young people who attend them with friends and family. They are embracing who they are at such a crucial time in life and showing up for their friends. It's quite emotional.

Clare

Pride through generations

In June, it will be 30 years since I went to my first Pride. I'll never forget the joy and exhilaration I felt being surrounded by the LGBTQ+ community that day. I was able to be myself, have fun and celebrate.

30 years on, I go to Pride with my daughter. Much has changed for the better for the LGBTQ+ community, but there are still so many struggles for respect and equal rights. Pride is as important now as it was then.