Yahoo News ‘We’ve got Pride in Hull down to a T’ – city’s annual festival to celebrate trans community in 2024
Pride in Hull, the city's premier celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride and equality, is gearing up for its most vibrant and impactful event yet.
Being held on Saturday, July 27, this year’s theme, "We've Got Pride Down to a T", shines a spotlight on the trans community, embracing diversity and empowering every voice. More than just an event, Pride in Hull has become a powerful platform and voice for the city's LGBTQIA+ community and allies.
What began as a protest, then a celebration, has evolved into a movement, advocating for inclusivity, equal rights, acceptance, and raising awareness. This year's festivities promise to be an unforgettable experience, with a diverse line-up of electrifying performances, thought-provoking discussions, and engaging activities for all ages.
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The event is completely free and open to the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, families, and individuals from all walks of life. Felix, 58, from Trans Peer Support Group (TPSG) in Hull, said: “As a trans man, I've learned that authenticity and self-acceptance are the keys to true happiness. This year's Pride in Hull’s theme is so important because it shines a light on the trans community and amplifies our voices.
“We're not asking for special treatment or to 'take over the world’. We simply want the freedom to live our lives openly and joyfully, without fear or judgment.
“Pride in Hull plays a crucial role in raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring meaningful conversations that can lead to greater acceptance and inclusion for the trans community."
Andy Train, chair of Pride in Hull, said: "Pride in Hull is no longer just a one-day event; it's a year-round commitment to creating a more inclusive and accepting society. Our mission is to amplify the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrate our diversity, and inspire positive change through education and advocacy.
"By shining a light on the trans community, we hope to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and inspire meaningful conversations that will lead to greater understanding among the wider community." Pride in Hull extends beyond the event itself, with year-round initiatives and partnerships aimed at supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
The organisation collaborates with local businesses, public organisations, and community leaders to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. KCOM and Reckitt are Platinum headliners of the event this year.
Tim Shaw, KCOM’s CEO, said: "We're delighted to be returning as a Platinum sponsor for Pride in Hull for the second year running for what promises to be another great day of celebration and awareness-raising. As a business that's been at the heart of our local communities for 120 years, we believe in leading from the front when it comes to embracing inclusion and standing with the LGBTQIA+ community and everything it does to benefit our region.
"We hope everyone has a fantastic Pride in Hull, and we can't wait to get started in what is always a vibrant and enjoyable parade through Hull city centre.”
Lisa Cowling, Reckitt’s LGBTQ+ UK network lead, said: “We are excited to sponsor Pride in Hull alongside KCOM. We’re looking forward to extending our commitment again this year, internally to LGBTQIA+ Reckitt colleagues and externally to the Hull community. At Reckitt, we strive to make our company and wider society an inclusive environment, where everyone is treated fairly and equitably, where every voice is heard and every individual matters.”
Andy Train welcomed the “transformative” platinum sponsorship of both businesses that would enable Pride’s dedicated volunteers to create an “unforgettable festival that celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and promotes love, respect, and unity throughout Hull and beyond”.
Pride in Hull’s locations on Saturday, July 27, include:
Main Stage - Zebedee's Yard
Trans Square - Queen Victoria Square
Hull Freedom Quarter - Savile Street
Community Market - King Edward Street
Family Area - Ferens Art Gallery
