Our history
We started out in 2005 with a focus on the Black queer community and their experiences. Now, we've grown to bring together people from wider cultures, gender identities and backgrounds.
2005
UK Black Pride, established in 2005, began as a small gathering organised by Phyll Opoku-Gyimah (Lady Phyll) and other Black Lesbian activists. They arranged a trip to Southend-on-Sea in 2004 for Black lesbians in the UK, which quickly evolved into a larger event the following year, which we now know as UK Black Pride!
The inaugural event in 2005 saw three coach-loads of participants heading to Southend-on-Sea, setting the stage for what would become an annual celebration. By 2006, UK Black Pride was officially launched, drawing support and enthusiasm from patrons and sponsors. This event has since grown to become Europe’s largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Caribbean heritage, attracting thousands of attendees each year. The primary motivation was the underrepresentation of Black LGBTQ+ individuals in mainstream Pride events, prompting the creation of a dedicated space for these communities to celebrate their identities and foster solidarity.
The success of UK Black Pride can be attributed to its inclusive and intersectional approach, addressing not only LGBTQ+ issues but also the unique challenges faced by people of colour within these communities. Lady Phyll's leadership and advocacy have been pivotal in promoting social justice and fighting discrimination on multiple fronts. Today, UK Black Pride is not just an event but a movement advocating for the rights and dignity of Black LGBTQ+ individuals globally.
2010
In 2010, UK Black Pride continued to grow and solidify its position as a vital event for the Black LGBTQ+ community in the UK. Founded in 2005, UK Black Pride began as a small gathering but quickly became a significant annual event. By 2010, it had expanded its reach and influence, attracting a diverse audience and fostering a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and Latin American descent.
UK Black Pride's mission in 2010 was to provide a safe space where Black LGBTQ+ individuals could celebrate their identities and connect with one another without facing the marginalisation often encountered at mainstream pride events. The event underscored the importance of recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by people of colour within the LGBTQ+ community, promoting inclusivity and intersectionality in its approach
Key figures like Lady Phyll, played an instrumental role in the organisationorganization and advocacy efforts of UK Black Pride. Her leadership helped highlight issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and poverty-classism, emphasising the need for more inclusive and diverse representation within the broader LGBTQ+ movement. This advocacy was crucial in building alliances and partnerships with other organisations and gaining support from wider society
The 2010 event, held at Regents Park in London, continued to draw attention to the disparities faced by Black LGBTQ+ individuals and provided a platform for community building and empowerment. The event featured various cultural performances, discussions, and activities aimed at fostering solidarity and raising awareness about the intersection of race and sexuality
Overall, UK Black Pride in 2010 played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and visibility of Black LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to the ongoing fight for equality and social justice.
2015
In 2015, UK Black Pride celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its mission to provide a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people of colour in the UK. The event has grown substantially since its inception, highlighting the ongoing need for a dedicated space where the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality can be celebrated and acknowledged.
The 2015 celebration was notable for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attendance, emphasising unity and the importance of representation. UK Black Pride continued to grow in prominence, attracting thousands of attendees and increasing its influence within both the LGBTQ+ and wider communities. The event featured a mix of performances, speeches, and community-building activities, demonstrating the resilience and vibrancy of the Black and POC LGBTQ+ communities.
Lady Phyll, co-founded UK Black Pride and has been a pivotal figure in its development. She has consistently highlighted the necessity of such an event which is all about safe and brave spaces - especially in the face of racism and exclusion within the broader LGBTQ+ movement. The 2015 event underscored her commitment to creating an inclusive space where Black and other minority ethnic LGBTQ+ individuals could feel seen, valued, and celebrated, all whilst taking an intersectional approach.
Overall, UK Black Pride's 2015 celebration was a landmark event that underscored its importance and the positive impact it has on the community. It not only provided a platform for celebrating diversity but also fostered a sense of belonging and solidarity among attendees, further cementing its role as a vital part of the UK's cultural landscape.
UK Black Pride: our annual event
Join us every August for the ultimate party in London.
One day, one party, one community.
We host a huge day out with an amazing line up of performers, stalls and talks. Our UK Black Pride event is a living love letter to LGBTQI+ people of colour and our allies.
How you can support us
Donations help us to keep our annual event free and accessible to as many people as possible. If you'd like to stand with and for us, donating is a great form of support.
