“We must not accept this erasure”
BY VIOLET NEWTON-WILD, IMAGE BY IBRAR HUSSAIN
As a student based in London but raised in the East Midlands, I feel deeply connected to my hometown of Belper. This quiet, historical mill town with industrial roots has undergone meaningful social, cultural, and political transformation in recent years. Even small towns like Belper evolve with the people who live in them. As a young, progressive student, I want my community to reflect my values. In 2019, I was proud to see my town introduce Pride in Belper.
Although it came decades after London’s first Pride in 1972, it marks a significant progressive change for a small community. What began with just 2,000 attendees has grown into an inclusive celebration that welcomed over 11,500 people in 2024. This expansion is a symbol of acceptance and diversity with volunteers, businesses, schools, and residents striving for change. This town is now recognised for its community spirit and commitment to inclusion, attracting visitors from across the country who want to experience the energy, joy, and acceptance that Belper offers.
Community feels more vital than ever following the local elections held across England on Thursday 1 May. Notably, Reform UK secured 677 councillors and won control of 10 out of 23 councils that were up for election, including Derbyshire County Council. I was extremely disappointed and disheartened particularly by the low voter turnout — just 36% in Derbyshire. According to a 2025 electoral commission report, only 45% of people aged 11 to 25 express an interest in UK politics. This growing voter apathy among young people concerns me, especially given the significant influence they could have in shaping their community.
One contributing factor may be logistical: the elections took place during university term time, and many students remain registered to vote in their hometowns. As a result, they may have been unable or unmotivated to participate. However, alternative voting methods exist as I, for example, applied for a proxy vote. I do not believe that feeling detached from local politics while at university should serve as an excuse for disengagement. Worryingly, registration rates among those turning 18 before a general election remain low, falling to 16% in 2022. Now more than ever, young voices are essential in constructing a more inclusive and representative community.
I am concerned about the future of Pride in Belper and the broader celebration of diversity within local communities. Reform UK has announced their plans to ban the flying of Pride flags on their council buildings — flags that are used to demonstrate an allyship with the LGBTQIA community. Under this new policy, only the Union Jack, St George’s flag and county flags will be permitted. The party’s chairman, Zia Yusuf, stated: “Reform-controlled English councils will move at speed to resolve that the only flags permitted to be flown on or in its buildings will be the Union Jack and St George’s flag.” The Pride flag is not merely decorative; it signals visibility, safety, and solidarity.
Reform’s stance on LGBTQIA+ rights is becoming increasingly apparent and undermines years of progress achieved by community-led initiatives. Potentially, they could influence decisions on funding for LGBTQIA+ support services and jeopardise events such as Pride in Belper.
Despite the current political setbacks, I remain hopeful that Derbyshire, and communities like it, will continue to champion inclusivity and resist efforts to divide us. In defending their decision to ban Pride flags, a Reform spokesperson expressed that they wish to showcase the Union Jack and St George’s flag because, “we are proud of our country and history.” But LGBTQIA+ individuals are part of that history and this country. We must not accept this erasure; instead, we should continue to celebrate diversity, visibility, and individuality and be proud to reflect those values within our local communities.
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