The regional LGBT+ Committee sponsored several Pride events, including Portsmouth, Herne Bay, Hastings, and Trans Pride Surrey.
In addition to sponsoring events, UNISON’s presence was strongly felt at many other Prides across the South East, showcasing our unwavering support for LGBT+ equality.
Portsmouth Pride
Clare Boorman, Area Organiser for UNISON, writes:
“On Saturday 7th June, UNISON South East sponsored and attended Portsmouth Pride, the host city for UK Pride. It was an unforgettable day, with thousands of visitors attending, keeping us busy at our stall.”
“It was fantastic to share a tent with other trade unions, all united in solidarity and support for LGBT+ rights. Our position in the Pride Parade along Southsea Seafront was highly visible, and we were joined by a wonderful mix of UNISON members, their friends, and families. It was heartening to see new LGBT+ activists getting involved for the first time.”
Herne Bay Pride
Clare continues:
“On Saturday 28th July, we hit the sunshine in style at Herne Bay Pride—a beautifully organised event that gets bigger every year. Our stall, just by the pier, attracted a great deal of interest.”
“The event was a vibrant festival of music, dancing, arts, and community, where everyone was welcome. We handed out plenty of goodies and spoke with many people working in the public sector about joining UNISON. We also had conversations with current members about becoming more active in their branches.”
Hastings Pride
Hastings Pride took place on Sunday 24 August. Lucy Power, a member of the UNISON South East LGBT+ Committee, shares her experience:
“A beautiful sunny Sunday in late August welcomed us to Hastings Pride at the Oval in Hastings. Our UNISON contingent this year included a number of new activists, making it the most diverse turnout we’ve had in years. South East Regional Co-Chair Kathy-Ann led us on the march from The Stade, with two members of the National LGBT+ Committee proudly waving the South East LGBT+ banner.”
“The Pride event was packed, with a large number of young people drawn to our vibrant UNISON stand. We discussed the importance of unions, specifically UNISON, and how the trade union movement plays a vital role in advancing equalities. Many attendees thanked us for being at the event, and we heard from several parents—some already members—expressing gratitude for the support UNISON had provided them in the workplace, and their pride in seeing us visible at Pride.”
“The day was fantastic and underscored the critical importance of visibility at Pride events as part of UNISON’s ongoing work.”
Trans Pride Surrey
Trans Pride came to Epsom this year, the second time Trans Pride has been in Surrey and was the largest to date. Emma Stephens-DuCros, equalities officer for UNISON Surrey branch was in attendance.
Emma writes:
“As it was, the march was small, but LOUD and POWERFUL. The overwhelming response from the people of Epsom was positive, with a few joining our march and coming along for the after-march entertainment.
“The South-East Region LGBT+ committee kindly donated to this event. The organisers said that they would not have been able to afford a venue without our sponsorship, so UNISON really did make a difference to this Pride.”
You can read Emma’s full report from Trans Pride Surrey here.
New members stepping up, becoming active
One of the highlights of this year’s Pride events was seeing new LGBT+ members getting involved. Clare Boorman says:
“We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of branches supporting their local Prides, with new LGBT+ members stepping up and becoming more active in their branches.
“Many have taken on key roles, such as workplace representatives, LGBT+ Officers, and Equality Officers. We’ve also witnessed exciting local initiatives—working with employer LGBT+ networks, creating Trans policies, and more.
“This year’s Pride events have reaffirmed that UNISON is a safe and supportive space for the LGBT+ community, and we continue to stand up for their rights in the workplace.
“Our participation has not only helped recruit new members but also encouraged existing members to become more involved and take on activist roles within their branches.”
Why These Events Matter
Pride is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful public display of identity, resilience, and solidarity.
UNISON’s presence at local Pride events serves several purposes: it raises awareness of the challenges LGBT+ public service workers face; provides visibility for our commitment to equality; and, strengthens ties with local LGBT+ groups, charities, and civic leaders.
By participating in Pride events, UNISON demonstrates that we are a union for all—committed to promoting equality in every workplace and community.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
UNISON will return to Pride in 2026, and our regional committee will decide which events to sponsor at their upcoming AGM.
Even if your local Pride isn’t officially sponsored by UNISON, we encourage branches to organise stalls or send delegations to support the event.
If you’d like to get involved with UNISON’s LGBT+ work—either in your branch or workplace—please contact Clare Boorman for more information.
