Manchester Pride is poised to make a comeback this year, rejuvenated under new stewardship following the financial failure of its former managing entity. The event, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, had faced uncertainty after Manchester Pride Events LTD went into liquidation in October, leaving behind debts exceeding £1 million owed to suppliers and performers.
New Leadership and Vision
The Manchester City Council has announced that a newly formed community interest company (CIC), named Manchester Village Pride, will now take charge of the annual four-day event. This organisation will be operated by a board of volunteers dedicated to ensuring the festival retains its core elements, including the vibrant parade, the lively village party, and the poignant vigil honouring those lost to HIV.
In a show of community solidarity, local venues have provided a loan of £120,000 to help kickstart planning and execution for this year’s festivities. A spokesperson for Manchester Village Pride expressed a commitment to reinvesting profits back into the local community, specifically targeting LGBTQ+ charities, grassroots organisations, and vital community services.
Community Engagement at the Forefront
In an effort to enhance inclusivity, the new organisation plans to establish a Community Advisory Board, composed of diverse voices from the LGBTQ+ community. This initiative aims to ensure that a wide range of perspectives is represented in the event’s planning stages, fostering a sense of ownership among community members.
Deputy Council Leader Councillor Garry Bridges emphasised the importance of the event, stating that Manchester Pride is essential for the city, serving as a representation of its welcoming nature and inclusivity. “Pride is vital for Manchester, as a symbol of our welcoming and inclusive city, a chance to celebrate our LGBTQ+ communities and to highlight injustices which still exist,” he remarked.
A Fresh Start with Commitment
Carl Austin-Behan, one of the founders of Manchester Village Pride CIC, referred to this transition as an opportunity for renewal. He articulated the vision of bringing Pride back to its roots in the Village, emphasising that this is not solely about location but also about accountability. “It is a commitment to responsibility: paying artists properly, funding community groups, supporting charities, protecting LGBTQ+ heritage, and building a sustainable future for Pride in Manchester,” he stated.
The return of Manchester Pride is not just an event but a reaffirmation of the city’s dedication to its LGBTQ+ communities. It represents an opportunity to reflect on the past while looking towards a more inclusive future.
Why it Matters
The revival of Manchester Pride is a significant development for both the local community and the wider LGBTQ+ landscape in the UK. It underscores the resilience of community spirit in the face of adversity, while also highlighting the essential role such events play in advocating for equality and remembrance. As Manchester reclaims its Pride, it not only celebrates diversity but also galvanises action against ongoing injustices, ensuring that the voices of the LGBTQ+ community remain at the forefront.
