12/06/2026
Every June, people around the world celebrate Pride Month.
While Pride is often associated with colourful parades and celebrations, its origins are rooted in the fight for equality. Pride commemorates the Stonewall uprising in New York in June 1969, when members of the LGBTQ+ community stood up against discrimination and harassment. The first Pride marches were protests, calling for visibility, dignity and equal rights.
Much progress has been made in the UK since then, but many LGBTQ+ people still experience discrimination, exclusion and hate crime. For some, simply being open about who they are can feel difficult or unsafe.
Pride is therefore both a celebration and a reminder. It celebrates the contributions, achievements and diversity of LGBTQ+ people while recognising that the work towards equality continues.
This year's Pride events across Kent will bring communities together to celebrate inclusion and belonging. Here in Maidstone, Pride events are taking place throughout June, including the Big Gay Out community event in Brenchley Gardens and a Pride Art Exhibition showcasing local LGBTQ+ artists and stories.
Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or as an ally, Pride is an opportunity to learn, listen and help create workplaces and communities where everyone feels they belong.
