I think it’s fair to say that the last month has been a colourful one, with Pride celebrations full of glitter, paint and positivity taking place across the country.
Pretty much every weekend has been one big party on the streets and we, of course, got involved. We’ve seen everything from dazzling drag cabaret performances, impressive circus acts, to hilarious comedians and pugs wearing rainbow garlands.
This year is, in fact, a particularly special year, marking the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots which inspired the LGBTQ+ rights movement, and has transformed to become known as Pride today. Here’s what some of our teams got up to this month:
Bourne Free, 13th July 2019: Oxford Point, Bournemouth
‘Believed to be the largest event to date in Bournemouth since staring up in 2004, Bourne Free 2019 was a captivating display of colours, glitter, and happiness. There were hundreds and thousands of people flocking the streets of Bournemouth to show their support of the LGBTQ+ community, and at Oxford Point, we were proud to take part in the event and lend our voices as allies of the community!’
‘Everyone was making final adjustments to their outfits and makeup before dancing our way from East Cliff through to the town centre and finally ending in the Triangle. Every single step of the way the parade was greeted with a buzz of excitement and smiles all round, the atmosphere was absolutely incredible. From the team at Oxford Point, we cannot wait to be involved again next year!’ Sadie, Oxford Point team member.
Liverpool Pride, 27th July 2019: Calico, Liverpool
‘Despite some drizzly weather at this year’s Liverpool Pride, the mood certainly wasn’t dampened (pardon the pun)! The atmosphere was absolutely incredible. Everyone was loving our rainbow flags, whistles, stickers and other free goodies. On our stand we were face painting, giving fake tattoos and braiding hair to raise money for our charity partner, Young Minds. One of our team members is actually a part-time hairdresser and gave people multi-coloured hair braiding, which was very popular!
By the end of the day we managed to raise £275 to Young Minds! We’re so proud to have raised money for such an important cause whilst celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Can’t wait until next year!’ Caroline, Calico Residents' Team member.
Bristol Pride, 13th July: Avon Studios, Bath & New Bridewell, Bristol
‘Walking up to pride, there were hundreds of people in rainbow colours, glitter and sequins everywhere you looked. The whole day was blazing sunshine and everyone was talking to each other. It was an incredible vibe! There were people from all walks of life, really coming together as a community.
We walked around the stalls speaking to different people about the history of LGBTQ liberation. It was so interesting to learn more about the Stonewall riots and the fight for LGBTQ rights since. This year actually marks the 50th anniversary since Stonewall riots and the 10th anniversary of Bristol Pride.
The Bristol Pride festival had something for everyone – a circus arena, drag cabaret, music stages and comedy acts. The main stage line-up featured the likes of Sara Alto, BoneyM, Mel C and Sink the Pink! People were loving our Fresh bags, and it was an amazing day to be involved in. Bring on next year!’ Rachael, Avon Studios, and Phoebe, New Bridewell.
Here at Fresh, we’re supportive of all our students in the LGBTQ+ community. If you’d like to find out more us, visit our website or feel free to call our Residents' Teams (you can find contact details on the website).