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An orgainser of Guernsey Pride has said events will pay homage to the first Pride protests, which celebrate their 50th anniversary this year.
Liberate Chief Executive, Ellie Jones, who identifies as non-binary, said “pride means different things to different people”, but that it was important for the island to mark the event.
“If you asked what Pride means to me a few years ago, my answer would be different to today, and I may answer differently in years to come,” they said.
Pictured: Guernsey Pride is held every two years. With the last event in 2020, this year's Pride will be the fourth for Guernsey. (Credit: Jackson Chambers Photography.)
Mx Jones continued: “For me, pride is not only about celebrating and raising awareness of the LGBTQ+ community, but it is also hugely important when you consider the international climate. There are 71 countries where being part of the LGBTQ+ community is illegal, 11 of which the penalty can be death.
“Even in Guernsey, there are currently no discrimination laws in place to protect the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination. I am very lucky that I was born in a place where it is not illegal, but my heart goes out to everyone around the world who is not as fortunate. Guernsey Pride has a role to play in saying to all people that we are here for them and would welcome them.”
Events this year include a headline drag act from Ru Paul’s Drag Race Winner, Lawrence Chaney, and headline music from The Freemasons with Amanda Wilson and Katherine Ellis. “For anyone who hasn’t heard of The Freemasons, they can be likened to Rudamental, and were the soundtrack for people like me growing up,” said Mx Jones.
Pictured: Liberate Chief Executive, Ellie Jones, said this year's events include a "full line-up" of live music. (Credit: Jackson Chambers Photography.)
Mx Jones continued: “There are a lot of events being held surrounding Guernsey Pride, including a theatre show at the Princess Royal Performing Arts Centre and art exhibitions in the George Crossan Gallery in the Market.”
Full details of the events can be found HERE
“Something which is always really important to us is that all events on Pride Day (3 September) are all completely free. We want everything to be accessible to everyone, without any financial barrier,” said Mx Jones.
“Pride is for everyone. We often hear about the vocal minority who are extremely loud in spouting hate speech against hate speech; Pride is an opportunity for people to show their support for the community."
Pictured: The 2020 Guernsey Pride saw the Town Church clock tower illuminated in the colours of the LGBTQ+ flag. (Credit: Jackson Chambers Photography.)
Mx Jones continued: “I work with a lot of LGBTQ+ young people and for them to be able to see thousands of people come out to support the community, instead of hearing the vocal minority, is so important.
“If you’re someone who isn’t sure why Pride is important or why it’s needed, then come and experience it for yourself. It’s a fantastic opportunity to demystify anything you might want to know more about.”
More information about Channel Island Pride is available HERE
Pictured top: Guernsey Pride 2020. (Credit: Jackson Chambers Photography.)
Guernsey to have its own Channel Island Pride festivities
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