Here is a list of some of the key pride events happening in Southampton this year.

To mark Pride Month, the Echo spoke to Nathanael Asher Wreford, director of People’s Pride Southampton CIC, regarding the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community - and why it is more important than ever to celebrate who you are.

He described the situation currently as 'tough', and that while their events are 'fully inclusive and welcome everybody' there are still 'pockets of homophobia' online.

As organizers of Pride events, People’s Pride Southampton also struggle to break down barriers between communities, Nathanael said: “There is too much segregation going on. It used to be really bad, and it has gotten better, but it’s not near the finish line yet.”

“Trans people are still under attack. They receive silly comments from people who are not fully educated.”

In response to these challenges, Pride events are held not only to support and strengthen the LGBTQ+ community but also to foster harmony among straight people.

“That's the only way you can spread harmony amongst the communities, by bringing all of these people together in one space,” Nathanael emphasized.

“We’ve always been big believers in supporting everybody no matter what. There is still a long way to go. We want politicians to seriously sit down and actually talk to the communities and see what's going on."

Through these Pride events, organizers hope to bridge the gap between communities, promote understanding, and work towards a safer and more inclusive society for all.

Here is the list of Pride events in Southampton for 2024 from People’s Pride Southampton:

Every Saturday: Weekly Market Stall The stall is located in Southampton city centre market, providing outreach, support, and advice at a low price year-round.

8-9 June: Pride in The Park 2024 This event will take place in Hoglands Park and focuses on full accessibility for everyone.

8 June: Pride in The Park Official After Party The after-party will be held at Bar One O Four in Hampshire.

25 December: The BIG Christmas Day Lunch & Social This annual event will take place at Edmund Kell Unitarian Church & Elizabeth Kell Community Hall in Southampton. Its objective is to bring the whole community together, regardless of whether you're gay, black, white, or transgender.

These pride events will also be happening, organised by other groups:

29 June: Trans Pride Southampton

24-25 August: Southampton Pride