Exploring LGBT+ people’s experiences of Pride events in the UK: Contrasting safeties, celebrations, and exclusions

This article draws on research on understandings and experiences of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans ) ‘communities’ in the UK (Formby 2017). It explores experiences of Pride events in the context of, and often in contrast to, LGBT+ people’s ‘everyday’ lives, focussing on two broad areas: how Pride events link to understandings of LGBT ‘community’, and how Pride events can be sites of alienation and exclusion. In the former, I examine two sub-themes concerned with safety and celebration. In the latter, I explore three sub-themes relating to commercialism, identity-based prejudice, and the notion of ‘excess’. Across these, I draw attention to the boundaries of Pride and how these are experiential as well as spatial and temporal. Study participants viewed Pride events as particularly significant, albeit temporary, forms of ‘LGBT space’, thought to facilitate feelings of community belonging, safety, and freedom, which were not always experienced elsewhere. However, Pride events were also subject to varied criticisms, including related to a lack of ‘politics’, the presence of alcohol and other commercial interests, and the potential for some LGBT+ people to be excluded within and from Pride events. Often this was related to their identities, appearance, and/or access to financial and other resources. Concerns were also evident regarding so-called ‘flamboyant’ displays of pride that unsettled some people who did not want to be (seen to be) ‘different’ or ‘extreme’. Nevertheless, for others, there was a clear sense of celebration at Pride events, which was appealing. In discussing these research findings, and the place of Pride events within understandings and experiences of LGBT communities in the UK, I identify some of the tensions and temporalities at play.

LGBT+ Pride Events: Experiences and Boundaries in the UK

The article explores experiences of Pride events in the UK and their relationship with LGBT+ communities. It examines how Pride events can create a sense of community belonging, safety, and freedom, but also face criticisms related to commercialism, identity-based prejudice, and exclusion. The research shows that Pride events are not homogenous and mean different things to different people, but they play an important part in understandings and experiences of LGBT+ communities. The study utilized an online survey, an interactive project website, and in-depth interviews and group discussions with 44 participants from all four UK countries.

This research is important because it explores the experiences of LGBT communities in the UK regarding Pride events. It highlights the significance of these events in creating a sense of community belonging, safety, and freedom for LGBT+ individuals, while also shedding light on the criticisms and exclusions that occur within Pride events. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for promoting inclusivity and ensuring that Pride events truly represent and cater to the diverse needs and experiences of the LGBT+ community.

Key Takeaways:

1. Pride events are important but complex, serving as both spaces for LGBT+ community celebration and sites of alienation and exclusion.

2. Pride events can create feelings of community belonging, safety, and freedom that may not be experienced elsewhere.

3. Pride events can be exclusionary, related to commercialism, identity-based prejudice, and perceived excesses.

4. The experiences of LGBT+ individuals vary, and Pride events may not be welcoming or inclusive for everyone.

5. Research is essential to understand the complexities and tensions surrounding Pride events and to ensure that they work for everyone