A rainbow-colored line gathered to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Britain’s first Pride Parade.
Delights wearing face paint, glitter, jewelry and sequins are taking part in a pride in London on Saturday. This is also the first time since the outbreak of a pandemic.
The floats lined up in Park Lane before the main march through the capital. It was led by gay liberation front (GLF) activists with placards, “I was there in 1972,” and they are “still fighting” for global LGBT + freedom.
More than a million people are expected to come down to the city for the parade and the celebrations that accompany it.
Part of what the organizers call “the largest and most comprehensive event in history” is the lineup of artists performing on four stages around central London.
The singer Emeli Sandé, who went public in April, is included in the entertainment bill.
She posted a story on Instagram, showing that she and her partner, classical pianist Yoana Karemova, were later preparing for the music festival of the day at Trafalgar Square on their way to the soundcheck.
This year’s parade from the Hyde Park Corner to the White Hall pays homage to the first march of 1972.
Over 600 LGBT + community groups are participating in the march, passing through the UK’s first important site for the LGBT + movement.
Mohammed Nazir, 24, of Bangladesh-born campaign group Rainbows Across Borders, said he wants to devote this year’s pride to those who have no choice but to hide their sexuality.
He told PA News Agency: “Pride is self-affirmation, dignity, equality. It’s a way to meet other LGBTQ people. Pride is a movement we’re still fighting for our rights.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan warned that the LGBT + community was “conscientious”, saying there was still the “danger” of “discrimination, prejudice and violence”.
He states: “This year is the 50th anniversary of pride, not only celebrating this community and celebrating progress, but also continuing the campaign and never being satisfied.
“Last week, a few hours before the parade, an attack in Oslo killed two people and injured more than 20.
“So we have to be aware of the fact that this community of discrimination, prejudice and violence is still at risk. But an ally like me is really important to support this community.”
He said people were marching for an “open, inclusive world of acceptance.”
Participants in the pride talked about their relief of returning after the pandemic.
“It’s good to celebrate 50 years, as we’ve obviously missed pride in Covid over the last two years,” said Steven Sanders. Dykes on Bikes London said he felt “great” to be back after the blockade.
Pop star Ava Max concludes the show on stage at Trafalgar Square, with other performers including Eurovision winners Netta, Samantha Mumba and Cat Graham.
According to the organizers, all proceeds from commercial partnerships will be reinvested in the LGBT + community, such as through Unity Fund.
The Unity Fund aims to build a stronger community by providing a one-time grant to grassroots organizations that meet the needs of the UK LGBT + community.
Public health officials, meanwhile, are urging people not to attend pride events if they have monkeypox symptoms or feel sick.
As of Thursday, there were 1,235 confirmed cases in the United Kingdom.
Wendi Shepherd, Head of Monkeypox Cases at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said:
“Enjoy your pride safely this weekend. Check yourself for blistering spots and rashes before going to an event or party.
“Don’t attend if you have monkeypox symptoms or feel sick. If you have a rash or blisters at home, call the Sexual Health Clinic for a test.”