As part of Pride Month, we sat down with James, Centre Assistant at the Allia Future Business Centre Cambridge Campus, to talk about what Pride means to him. From memories of his first Pride event to reflections on visibility, allyship and the importance of protest, James shares his personal perspective on why Pride continues to matter today.
Do you remember attending your first Pride event? If so, what was it like?
My first event was London Pride. One of the main things I remember is how warm it was. To see people being themselves, with such bold colours everywhere, it was amazing. Like every Pride event I have attended since, it felt bright, safe and welcoming to everyone.
However, the day took a crazy turn. My friend, who I went with, slipped and fell on a banana peel, of all things, badly injuring his knee. At the time, he was really worried he’d ruined my first Pride, and I was trying to be kind and supportive. Looking back now, we just laugh at how absurd the whole thing was. It’s like something out of a cartoon!
Why are Pride events important for celebrating the LGBTQ+ community?
Pride celebrations can act as a shining light for anyone who is still in the closet, especially those in the younger generation who may be feeling confused or unsure. I mean, if fifteen-year-old me could see me now, he would be speechless.
However, Pride isn’t only a celebration. It is also a protest and a reminder that the fight for equality is never truly over.
What is the importance of protest as a part of Pride Month?
Pride began as a protest for equality, and that remains an important part of what it stands for today. We will not go back into hiding, and peaceful protest continues to be one of the most powerful ways to stand up for our rights.
There is a long history of this, from the Stonewall uprising in the late 1960s, to solidarity with the miners’ strikes in the 1980s, through to the fight for marriage equality in the 2000s. We protest for basic human rights. We simply wish for acceptance, and that is very much a human right.
What’s one of your favourite memories from Pride celebrations?
I love drag queens. I mean, I want to be one! So meeting some of the queens I’d watched on TV at Pride left me completely starstruck. They were all so kind and welcoming, and it was incredible to be in their presence.
Another thing I’ve really cherished at Pride events is getting to know more trans people and hearing about their experiences. Listening to people’s stories and lived experiences is a vital part of being an ally, as is showing acceptance and love. I really do believe love is a superpower.
