Pride 2026 - Why do we still need Pride?
LGBTQ+ Pride began as a protest movement rooted in resistance to oppression and has evolved into a global mix of celebration, remembrance, and ongoing activism. The UK is currently experiencing a period of political change introducing new debates about equality and identity. To the point were there is a proposal from one Party to repeal the Equality Act 2010, which currently protects people from discrimination based on their sexual orientation and gender reassignment.
These discussions are not abstract. The Equality Act is the legal foundation that safeguards LGBT+ people in workplaces, housing, education, and public services. Changes to it could have real, lived consequences for communities across the country.
The Stonewall Riots (1969)
The modern Pride movement is widely traced to the Stonewall Riots, which began on 28 June 1969 in New York City. When police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, patrons fought back. Protests and clashes continued for several days and became a turning point in LGBTQ+ activism. Stonewall is often seen as the catalyst for a more assertive and visible rights movement.
The first Pride marches (1970s)
On the first anniversary of the riots, June 28, 1970, activists organised marches in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. These were called Christopher Street Liberation Day events and are widely recognised as the first Pride marches. The idea quickly spread to other cities in the U.S. and internationally.
Growth and political focus (1980s–1990s)
During the 1980s, Pride took on additional urgency due to the HIV/AIDS crisis, which disproportionately affected gay men. Pride events became spaces for protest, remembrance, and fundraising, as well as celebration.
By the 1990s, Pride had expanded globally, becoming more visible and increasingly connected to campaigns for legal rights, including anti-discrimination protections and recognition of same-sex relationships.
Mainstream recognition (2000s–present)
In the 21st century, Pride has become a global phenomenon, with events in major cities across the world. Many countries have legalised same-sex marriage and improved LGBTQ+ rights, and Pride often includes both celebration and activism.
However, it still serves as a platform to highlight ongoing issues such as discrimination, trans rights, and equality in countries where LGBT people face legal or social persecution.
Today
Pride Month is now typically celebrated in June, honouring the Stonewall Riots. While parades and festivals are common, the core purpose remains:
- affirming identity
- promoting visibility
- advocating for equality and human rights
In 2026, we are seeing Pride events having their funding withdrawn by certain Councils who have changed Leadership after the recent local elections. We are seeing attempts to roll back all the rights we protested and marched for over fifty years.
We have seen the alliance between The Miners and the LGBTQ+ communities come back into the spotlight during this year’s Durham Pride 2026. What brilliant allyship! In 2026, Durham Pride faced a funding cut from the local council. The Durham Miners’ Association stepped in alongside trade unions to support the event. Their contribution was significant enough that fundraising exceeded the lost council funding, helping ensure Pride went ahead.
Inspire North let’s;
- create spaces where people feel safe to be themselves
- hold respectful conversations across difference
- ensure that no group is left behind as society evolves.
Importantly, supporting Pride does not mean avoiding difficult discussions. It means committing to dignity, fairness, and inclusion, even when those conversations may feel complex.
In summary: LGBTQ+ Pride began as a protest movement rooted in resistance to oppression and has evolved into a global mix of celebration, remembrance, and ongoing activism. It is still needed today as is solidarity and speaking up. I will be joining Pride events this year as I feel it is time once again to show up!
Sinéad Cregan
Director of Development and Innovation