The scouts have been attending London pride for 14 years to show our commitment to equality and building a more inclusive society. Starting bright and early in regents park there was chance to meet other members, listen to some of their stories and of course, get glitter on!
With the glitter on it was time to head to cavendish square to meet the near million strong crowd and over 300 other organisations taking part in the parade
“The atmosphere is amazing here, so good!”
Andy Milford – Assistant Cub Scout Leader, 15th Cardiff
Whilst everyone at pride has a good time, County Youth Commissioner, Ben, told us how important the support from scouts and pride is to anyone questioning their gender identity.
“ As a trans person pride is so important to remember because…even though there are so many people who will say…they don’t like who you are, to come to pride and see how many people actually embrace your identity…is so important” Ben – County Youth Commissioner, Merseyside
As well as the 40 or so members in the parade we saw lots of scouts wearing rainbow neckers in the crowd. Deputy UK Chief Commissioner Kester Sharpe was keen to encourage other scout groups to support their local pride by participating or watching the parade.
“Its just been phenomenal…its amazing when you see people that you have some connection to, and they weren’t the first group of scouts I saw either, and thats just brilliant….we do attend prides in most major cities in the uk….all the people lining the route, thats what makes pride!” Kester Sharpe, Deputy UK Chief Commissioner.
If you would like to be involved in London Pride next year visit scouts.org.uk/pride
To find out more about FLAGS the National Scout Active Support Unit that supports LGBT+ scouts visit flagscouts.org.uk
Reporting by Jack Wensley
Photos by Tom Hylands