Exeter Pride will return for an in-person celebration of LGBTQ+ diversity and visibility on Saturday 14 May this year.
The giant 50 metre rainbow flag will lead a parade through Exeter’s city centre which will include community groups, firefighters, police, students, trade union and business groups as well as individuals, with music, dancing and more.
Marchers will gather from 11.30am at St Sidwell’s Community Centre for a noon start before making their way through the city centre to Northernhay Gardens where local LGBT+ choir Spectrum will open an afternoon of live musical and spoken word performances.
The main stage will host musicians including local folk duo Suthering, spoken word rap artist Mama Tokus and slam champion Jasmine Gardosis, with a showcase of drag performers from around the south west.
Local LGBTQ+ organisations and community groups will also be taking part in a marketplace of 60+ stalls which include a range of local food vendors. There will be information and advice as well as demonstrations and fun.
Exeter Pride 2019 in Exeter High Street. Photo: Naomi Parkinson.
Exeter Pride committee chair Tamsin Scott said: “We are so excited to finally be able to welcome back our friends and allies in the LGBTQ+ community.
“The last few years have made it harder than ever for us to support each other, especially in the face of harmful narratives and policies that threaten the most vulnerable in our community.
“We also face fresh challenges this year as we work with our local business partners and sponsors in a changed economic landscape.
“It is vital now that we can come together, be visible, be proud, and stand in solidarity with those who are currently unable to do so.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone back as our community is what makes Exeter Pride the amazing day it is!”
Now running for more than ten years, Exeter Pride is a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and questioning plus communities. It is one of the biggest free Pride events in the country.
The event relies on local sponsorship, small amounts of public funding and donations to pay for road closures, toilet hire, insurance, security and other overheads.
A crowdfunder has been launched to help meet these costs.
Volunteers who want to help out on the day by stewarding or helping setup or close down the marketplace stalls can sign up here.
Visit the Exeter Pride website to find out more and get involved.
