Love and unity led the way during Brighton Pride on Saturday 2 August with the University of Sussex proudly taking part in the Community Parade once again this year. Our walking group of 58 staff, students and alumni from across the University community joined the parade, marching together in protest and celebration.
View the photos from Brighton Pride.
The streets of Brighton were lined with thousands of people for the parade, showing their support, solidarity and allyship for charities, community groups, organisations and businesses taking part. The Sussex walking party was even spotted by the Mayor of Brighton, Councillor Amanda Grimshaw, who asked for a photo - pictured on the right, with our group!
The Community Parade is a highlight of Brighton Pride weekend and we were honoured to be part of it, reflecting our commitment to inclusion and equality for LGBTQ+ people including staff, students and members of the wider community.
Read what some of our participants had to say about taking part:
“As always, the Pride parade was an incredibly uplifting experience. I am so proud to work at Sussex ─ such an inclusive, kind and welcoming place! It was super nice to see so many students watching the parade, and their excitement and roars of delight as we came past!" Professor Alison Pike, School of Psychology
"I was so proud to attend the parade this year as both a Sussex alum and a current member of staff. It was such a special way to come together and celebrate the beautiful inclusivity of our community, the very thing that brought me to Sussex eight years ago." Adelmo Luccoli, University of Sussex Business School
“Taking part in Brighton Pride Parade with Sussex was such a joyful and uplifting experience - I had an amazing time! As I prepare to leave the University at the end of September, it felt especially meaningful and is a moment I’ll always remember. My motivation was to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, to encourage inclusivity, and to celebrate the simple but powerful truth that love is love.” Wendy McRae-Smith, General Counsel & Governance Services
"Volunteering at Brighton Pride parade was an unforgettable celebration of love, unity, and visibility. Marching alongside such a vibrant community reminded me how powerful it is when we come together to stand for equality. The energy, colour, and joy in the streets were truly inspiring and I am immensely proud to be part of it." Berfin Karadag, University of Sussex Business School