The decision follows the UK Supreme Court ruling on the definition of the term “woman”
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY JUAN MOYANO
Birmingham, Brighton, London and Manchester Prides have all announced that political parties will not be welcome at this year’s celebration, following the UK Supreme Court ruling in April.
In a statement released yesterday (12 May), the UK’s four largest Pride celebrations said that they would be “collectively suspending political party participation”. This decision followed the ruling last month in the UK Supreme Court that defined the term “woman” as referring to “biological sex” in the Equality Act 2010.
All four Prides said that they stand in “unequivocal solidarity with our trans community”.
“We will not stand by as the dignity, safety, and humanity of our trans siblings are debated, delayed, or denied,” the statement continued. “What is happening here in the UK is not isolated. It is part of a disturbing global trend – from the banning of Pride events in Hungary to anti-trans legislation in the United States – where LGBTQ+ rights are being systematically rolled back. The UK must not follow this path of regression. Instead, it must rise as a global leader in human rights and equality.”
The statement also called for action, asking for better access to NHS gender-affirming healthcare, a reformed Gender Recognition Certificate process and sustainable funding for trans-led services and support organisations across the UK. They also called for full and enforceable protections under the Equality Act for trans people.
“To those in power: when you demonstrate true solidarity and tangible commitment to trans rights, we will stand with you,” the statement concluded. “Until then, we will continue to speak truth to power and fight for a future where every trans person can live safely, freely, and proudly.”
The dates for these Prides are:
Birmingham Pride – 24-25 May
Pride In London – 5 July
Brighton Pride – 2 August
Manchester Pride – 23 August
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