Pride Month is celebrated every June as a tribute to those who were involved in the Stonewall Riots. We’re getting ready to dust off our rainbow flags, douse ourselves in glitter, and go join in the fun. With parades, festivals, and concerts going on across the globe, there’s always some way for you to get involved — as well as learn some important social history along the way.
"June is Pride month, it's a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ communities.
Pride is about upholding the principles of equality, acceptance, respect and increasing awareness of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride is a very personal thing. For some, this entails sporting all of the colours and attending one of the marches. To others, it's simply about feeling at ease in their own skin. Whatever way you choose to celebrate, remember to be proud of who you are!
Although we may not be able to match the spectacular marches and celebrations that are generally held. We hope that our efforts will enable anyone in the community who is feeling lonely to connect with other LGBTQ+ students, join the student-led liberation network, and just enjoy Pride from the comfort of their own homes.
We at the UPSU are proud to be allies to all LGBTQ+ students and staff. We are here to support you!"
With Pride Month coming to an end, our commitment to all our students still stands throughout the year!
Plymouth is a diverse city, with people from all aspects of life, events and cultures and we are proud to be a part of it!
"I was really excited to hear that Plymouth Pride would be going ahead this year. It's been such a long time since we've had the large-scale Pride event in our city and I think something that always comes hand-in-hand with these events is the overpowering message of hope and joy. Since it began, Pride is the proof that even though we're going through some really strenuous times like oppression across the world and in our own lives, we can still be happy; there can still be sun when there is rain. There are other people like us and we are not - and we never were - alone.
I am looking forward to responsibly participating in what Pride events I can this year with my partner, and I would encourage people to join in themselves, in whatever capacity that they feel comfortable and safe doing - whether that be an at-home participation, or being out and getting involved in Pride events physically.
Though this month is considered Pride Month, be proud of your identity all year long. For those who are out, I am proud of you. For those who are not out, by choice or by pressure, I am proud of you too. You deserve respect for who you are, even if you might not be receiving it. Your life is your own - go at your own pace.
Happy Pride!"