WARRINGTON Pride is set to make its much-welcomed return to the town centre this June with an emphasis on diversity and community inclusion.
Building on the success of last year’s event, the 2024 edition will take place on Saturday 8th as part of Pride Month, with the support of popular shopping destination Golden Square, Warrington Borough Council, Warrington BID, Warrington Market, Culture Warrington, Warrington Youth Zone, University of Chester, LiveWire, HC Promotions and United Utilities.
It aims to bring the community together in the spirit of acceptance and solidarity and will feature a programme of activities, including exciting events, thought-provoking talks, performances and creative showcases.
Ian Cox, Director of Golden Square, said: “Through collaborative efforts and a passion to make a difference, this is our commitment in creating a town where every individual feels valued and embraced for who they are. Events like these highlight the importance of diversity and celebrate the richness it brings to our community.
“Warrington Pride provides a platform for both unity and understanding and Golden Square is proud to support Warrington Pride and its mission of inclusivity.”
Warrington Pride 2024 will also feature live music, performances, workshops and a parade through the streets of the town. The event will also host a variety of vendors and community organisations providing resources and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.
TAGS (Teenagers, Gender & Sexuality), Warrington Borough Council’s Early Help LGBTQ+ Youth Support Service, provides LGBTQIA+ support to young people aged 11-17 years (Youth TAGS) and 17 – 24 years. The organisation offers a safe space to meet, socialise, access support, and develop skills and confidence, while empowering and inspiring its users to pursue leading roles in the future.
Sharon Johnson and Jaime Graham, representatives of TAGS, said: “Events like Warrington Pride stand as beacons of acceptance and solidarity, right at the heart of our community. Its purpose is to promote acceptance, while also offering support and visibility for LGBTQIA+ youth in our community, empowering them to be themselves.
“Through its celebration and advocacy, Warrington Pride illuminates the path towards a more inclusive and compassionate society, where diversity is not only accepted but celebrated.”
UK Pride Month holds special significance as it coincides with the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in the United States, a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history.
Through events and initiatives such as these, it commemorates this legacy, while also serving as a platform for celebrating diversity, promoting inclusivity and honouring the community’s history and achievements. It’s also a time for education, advocacy, and joyful expression, fostering unity and acceptance for all.
Andrea Morley, Project Manager for Warrington BID, said: “Warrington Pride is an integral part of our community’s calendar. It not only celebrates diversity, but also fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity for all.
“Such events provide invaluable opportunities for individuals from all walks of life to come together, share experiences and create lasting connections. They play a vital role in promoting understanding, acceptance, and mutual respect, contributing to the fabric of our vibrant town.”
For more information about Warrington Pride 2024, including event details and sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://wearewarringtonbid.co.uk/warringtonpride2024
