Joy, colour and celebration were the order of the day at Brighton Pride on Saturday 3 August and the University of Sussex was a proud partner of Pride for the seventh consecutive time this year. The sun shone on 60 staff, students and alumni who joined the community parade as part of the University walking group - click on the image below to view the photos:
Thousands of people lined the streets of Brighton & Hove on the day, showing their support, solidarity and allyship for charities, community groups, organisations and businesses taking part in the parade. We were honoured to be part of Brighton Pride once again, reflecting our commitment to inclusion and equality for LGBTQ+ people including staff, students and members of the wider community.
Hear what staff and students who took part had to say about being part of the parade:
“Brighton Pride parade is more than just a celebration: it’s a reminder of how far the LGBTQ+ community has come in fighting for our dignity and equality, and a spur to keep fighting. With anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric ramping up across the country, it’s so important that we are visible in support of the queer community - that’s why I was so proud to march with the University of Sussex contingent.” James Croft, University Chaplain
“Being in the parade was the best Pride I have ever had. I got to meet some new people from the University and be proud and dance my little heart out… I loved being a University of Sussex rainbow unicorn. Always here to represent the mature, autistic, non-binary people. Many thanks for letting me be involved and making people smile for the day.” Vicki Phillips, School of Life Sciences
“As a queer-identifying international student from the Philippines, the opportunity to attend the Pride parade with the University of Sussex has been both a humbling and reflective experience. Seeing other people walk with us and celebrate with us is a reminder that the struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion has progressed beyond tolerance. However, the march remains a protest of visibility and solidarity so long as there are people who cannot live their lives truthfully and authentically.” Jaz Malonda, School of Media, Arts and Humanities
“For me Pride is about being who you are, accepting who you are, and being proud of who you are. It’s about saying this is me, and I’m proud to be me. At the Pride parade you can meet your LGBT+ colleagues and celebrate together. Put on your plumage, strut your stuff and feel free - but make sure you’ve broken in your new boots first.” James Mudd, School of Law, Politics and Sociology