At the weekend I went to Manchester for this years Gay Pride.I had a brilliant weekend catching up with some friends who have recently moved to Manchester!
Forgive me if this blog is vague, or woolly but I find it difficult to write about an issue that is so close to the hearts of many, but that doesn't effect me as a person. For a much more articulate, absolute gem of an article written by a friend of mine, check out page 14 of The Pink Paper here.
Despite my troubles in expressing this properly, I find it hard to accept the overly commercial focus of the contemporary pride movement. The aim of pride is to advocate and work for equal rights and opportunities for people who are LGBT. Above you will see a photo of the NUS LGBT campaign who, commendably sought to remind us that we should never forget this core purpose. Attempts to mirror Birmingham's very own 'Pride is a Protest' campaign were thwarted by event organisers, true implication that we have forgotten what pride is really about.
The focus of pride that began 35 years ago has detracted from the liberation movement that once existed, and unfortunately the focus of the event is driving profits, with the weekend wristband costing £20 not to mention the additional extortionate entry prices to enter clubs and on top of that drinks prices to rival Selfridges champagne bar. I find it wholly outlandish to ever contemplate that we may one day make money out of people as a part of "Reclaim the Night"- why is pride so different?
Too often in my work, I find myself defending, or jusifying the liberation campaigns, the campaigns that in student unions should be shaping our every action. Not only should gay pride should signify the celebration of the lengths secured towards equality, but should be the lead in campaigning to secure the extra difference.
I can think of no better way to end this blog, than by quoting the wise Wes Streeting, "changing legislation is easy with the right government. Changing attitudes is a lot harder. When every child can grow up in an atmosphere of freedom, tolerance and respect then we'll finally have something to be proud about. Until then, pride remains a protest and shouldn't come at a price."
1 comment:
Great blog, although you forgot to mention that although the NUS sort of chickened out and gave up on the "Pride is a Protest" message in 2008 after being bullied by the parade oragnisers, lots of other people did not. The Pride is a Protest movement would love to see you this year!
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