Northern Pride is still celebrating after its first in-person event in two years has been heralded a major success, as well as one of the largest outdoor events ever seen in Newcastle.
A record 25,000 people took part in the parade through the streets of Newcastle over the weekend of July 22-24 with many more cheering them from the roadside, while the Town Moor was taken over with live performances and attractions for attendees.
The celebration was also the first time it was awarded UK Pride status and attracting supporters not just from across the country but across the globe, from the USA to Australia. Performances included those from noted local LGBTQ+ artists such as Melanie C, Louise and Joe McElderry. The Moor also hosted a community village with attractions for families and health and advice.
Northern Pride director Ste Dunn said the incredible and positive response to the event included praise for efforts regarding accessibility, such as the raised platform for wheelchair users and the new LGBT Northern Social Group zone. Ste also thanked the sponsors and donors in the community and beyond, especially the those tirelessly fundraising year-round who not only make the event possible, but free.
“The Pride Festival is such an important opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate, but it is also an opportunity to remember the history of Pride and the struggles that many people still face and that is why we need to continue to speak out against LGBTphobic hate crimes and violence against our community, whilst also demanding change especially for our Trans, non-binary and gender diverse community.”
Attending luminaries from the Pride movement included Kristine Garina, President of European Pride Organisers Association, Hadi Damien and Debbie Brixey, President and Vice President of Interpride, respectively.
Next year’s event has already been announced for the weekend of 22-23 July 2023, with Platinum passes now on sale.
