On Saturday 7th June, the LGBTQI+ community of Bury will take to the streets for Bury Pride and The Walking Rainbow Parade.
Pride celebrations and parades up and down the country, and in Bury has always been more than just a celebration, it’s also a protest, a show of unity, and a demand for equal rights for everyone in the LGBTQI+ community, especially for our trans family, who are facing some of the toughest attacks on their rights in years.
The UK government has not been standing up for trans people. We’ve seen a steady decline in protections and support from legal setbacks to harmful rhetoric. That has real consequences, right here, in our own town, for our friends, neighbours, and loved ones.
So, this year, we’re asking political representatives, whether councillors, cabinet members, or MPs, to think very carefully before stepping into our Pride space.
If you’re attending Bury Pride, do it because you truly stand with us, not just for a photo opportunity for Facebook or X.
We want to see more than just a photo on your social media post. We want real support. That means:
- Speaking out publicly and clearly in support of trans rights
- Challenging anti-LGBTQI+ policies and rhetoric in your party and government
- Supporting access to NHS gender-affirming healthcare
- Backing proper funding for LGBTQ+ services, especially those run by and for trans people
- Supporting reforms that make the Gender Recognition Certificate process fair and accessible
- Defending and strengthening the Equality Act, not watering it down
This is the bare minimum we expect.
Bury Pride is for everyone, but we’re not here to give platforms or glitter to those who won’t stand with us when it matters.
If you’re coming, come with commitment and come ready to listen. Come ready to stand up, not just show up.
Bury Pride started many years ago with young people and POG. We’re proud of what we’ve created together in Bury, but we know the fight isn’t over. And this year, more than ever, we need everyone to step up for our trans siblings.
If we haven’t scared our political friends away yet, see you on Knowsley Street with pride and purpose.
In solidarity,
The Bury Pride Team
