Pride prepares for action day

WOKINGHAM Pride is gearing up its celebrations with Pride Action Day.

Now in its third year, the event is looking to June 11, when it will distribute rainbow pride flags to services and business to display ahead of the full event in July.

Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth said: “Young people in Wokingham are discovering who they are, and we need to show them they have our support.

“The event gives families in similar situations an opportunity to meet one another, both children and parents with something in common,

The pride celebrations will begin with a group photo outside Wokingham Town Hall in Market Place on Saturday, July 9.

Attendees are then invited to Elms Field for a picnic from noon, where they may bring their own food or visit the food vendors close-by.

It will also be only the second year that the event will take place in person, after its inaugural year was moved online.

“Parents of trans kids have a real gap in support, as a number of residents have mentioned, and they need to be able to find that help,” Cllr BishopFirth said.

“I’ve been bowled over by the love shown by places like the library, which has been spectacular, and a lot of churches have been huge support.”

Libraries in Wokingham will be making LGBTQ+ resources such as books and information about local charities and support readily available.

She explains that St Paul’s Parish has become part of the Inclusive Church initiative, which supports LGBTQ+ Christians, as well as others.

“It’s an opportunity for places like shops and schools to show their support.”

She notes also that the UK’s standing as a champion of equality and LGBTQ+ rights has dropped, citing the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association’s rainbow map.

“We’ve fallen internationally, dropping from third in the league tables to 14th.”

Pride Action Day takes plane on Saturday, June 11, when businesses and services will be offered pride flags to display.

Wokingham Pride is set to take place on Saturday, July 9.