What makes Loughborough Pride meaningful to you, and how has your experience been working with our organisation?
 

What pride means to me is self-respect, freedom and the courage to live as my true self. I’m proud to be part of a strong and

loving community, and to stand up for our rights together.

I feel proud of what we've achieved, and it's been an absolute honour to be on the committee for Loughborough Pride. The

teamwork and sense of togetherness have not only strengthened our committee but also built a more profound bond within

the broader community.

- Grant -
 

I'm proud to call myself an Ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Being a part of this team has given me insight into just how much

prejudice is received, thus making me feel deeply hurt. Pride means more than just a day full of colour. It's a day where

everyone can stand united, showing the world that it's not what social media portrays the community to be like. I'm the voice,

I'm the Ally, and I will be there fighting your corner and standing proudly with you.

- Rebecca -

The primary reason I wanted to join the team was to unite the town of Loughborough as one, promote love among all

community members and allies, and be fully inclusive, accepting everyone regardless of their sexual orientation. I also

wanted to stand in solidarity and declare that we are here, proud, and will not be silenced, proudly flying the Progress Flag.

Loughborough Pride holds great significance for me, as it allows us to celebrate one another safely and foster a sense of

community spirit. It makes me happy to see kindness and acceptance flourish within the community.

Over the years, the support I've received, especially from like-minded individuals, has significantly boosted my confidence.

Most importantly, Loughborough Pride fills me with love—a vibrant community where we look out for each other. It’s about

sharing moments with friends, forging new connections through simple gestures like a smile or hello, and nurturing

friendships that start small and grow over time.

I'm deeply grateful to the wonderful people who have stood by me, such as Ashley, Ben, and Grant. Their love and support

have played a vital role in helping me become more confident.

- Shane -
 

Loughborough Pride holds a special place in my heart, as it is through Loughborough Pride that I have met so many wonderful

people who have become part of my found family. I care about and volunteer for Loughborough Pride because, all too often,

LGBT+ people in Loughborough end up feeling isolated. It seems there is no space for us in town, and we often face

harassment just for simply existing.

However, Pride demonstrates that there is a whole community of us who can stand strong and support each other during

diBicult times. It's truly uplifting to see LGBT+ people celebrated for just being themselves in Loughborough, giving me hope

for a brighter future. Volunteering for Pride makes me feel proud to live in Loughborough and to be part of our wonderful local

community.

- Valen -
 

Loughborough Pride was an opportunity to give back to the community that welcomed me warmly when I first arrived here in

Loughborough. It also aimed to build bridges and create a space where others feel safe and included, regardless of their

background. Loughborough Pride 2025 was a celebration of love and acceptance in its purest form.

Having known my own identity from a young age, I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by family and friends who accept me. Still, I

recognise that many people don’t have that experience.

Pride serves as an essential platform to raise awareness about the ongoing injustices we face daily, even within our own

community. Our fight for equality continues until everyone is treated equally.

- Ben -