June is Pride Month in the UK, so expect to see a wide range of events, parades, marches, and discussions taking place providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies to make their voices heard.

Our very own Adrian Golifer, joint Diversity Coordinator of the Insurance Institute of Manchester:

• explains what Pride means to him;
• explores its origins; and
• discusses the Insurance Institute of Manchester’s entry into this year’s Manchester Pride Parade event.

“The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride (‘LGBTQ+’) month is something that’s celebrated around the world every June, and I’m constantly impressed by how Pride evolves in the UK.

Pride is essential to foster a real sense of community for people who may feel isolated because of what makes them different. For me, Pride is an opportunity to express pride in my identity and be grateful to those who, in the past, fought for social progress.

Most people are aware that nowadays Pride events involve large parades, parties, and lots of happy smiling people. However, let’s not forget that Pride exists to commemorate the Stonewall riots of 1969 that took place in Manhattan, New York.

During the 1950’s and 60’s, the concept of being LGBTQ+ was often not spoken about or publicly expressed. US society and its social norms viewed the concept as being taboo. Fortunately, there was a group of people who didn’t believe the same and stood against the US government demanding an end to discriminatory treatment. In subsequent years Pride has grown into a global movement celebrating diversity, promoting equality, and advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.”

The Insurance Institute of Manchester taking part in Manchester’s Pride Festival Parade

In August 2023, following last year’s successful inaugural entry, the Insurance Institute of Manchester will once again be taking part in Manchester’s Pride festival parade. The full Pride event spans the bank holiday weekend of 25^th to 28^th August 2023, with the parade being held on Saturday 26^th August 2023.

The IIM will soon be releasing more information to their members on how to attend. They are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join the planning team, for more information either visit the IIM’s website here or get in touch via adrian.golifer@createsolutions.co.uk.