Liverpool Pride Makes a Comeback with Community Support

Liverpool Pride is set to return this year, with the assistance of Sahir House, the oldest LGBTQ+ charity in the city, which stepped in to coordinate the event. The LCR Pride Foundation, initially responsible for organizing the celebration, had canceled the planned parade and party on July 26 due to financial and organizational struggles that limited their operations to mostly volunteer efforts. Sahir House took to social media to announce that they have successfully reorganized Pride, promising a celebration that will be "louder, prouder, and truly ours."

This year’s Liverpool Pride will feature a redesigned march route, a queer arena celebration, and a focus on activities that cater to families. The charity emphasizes that Pride should be an inclusive experience for everyone. Recent reports indicate that UK Pride events are facing declining corporate sponsorships, with 75 percent of events affected, partially blamed on the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the United States, which have influenced sponsors’ willingness to fund events. Dee Llewellyn, chair of the UK Pride Organisers Network and director at London Pride, noted a significant drop in support for Pride events across the country, which has forced many organizers, including those in Liverpool, to reconsider their plans.

To facilitate this year’s Pride celebrations, Sahir House aims to raise £60,000, having so far collected over £15,400. John Hyland, a former co-chair of Liverpool Pride, expressed the pressing need for Pride this year, referencing recent protests by the transgender community and affirming the community's desire for a vibrant celebration. The charity’s official statement celebrates local LGBTQ+ artists, activists, and allies for their hard work in making Liverpool Pride a reality this year, stressing that it will truly belong to the community. The events will commence on July 19 with a grassroots celebration at the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, featuring creative workshops, spoken word performances, and community engagement activities. Sahir House is dedicated to ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and celebrated during this occasion.