25 September 2011. That is the date one community has been waiting to mark in its diary for over two years, and the Sunderland Pride committee has been working tirelessly to make sure that local history would be made in 2011. Last year’s plans for Pride 2010 came to a grinding halt after unforeseen circumstances meant that the event could not be held, but that didn’t stop founders Chris Ramsey and Arnie Taylor. They pledged to put even more hard work into the idea, and so – finally – Sunderland Pride is being born this year.
It was back in October 2009, when they were sitting in a bar having a few drinks and putting the world to rights, that Ramsey and Taylor were struck by the idea that Sunderland should have its own Pride. After pondering over the idea for a few weeks they decided to discuss it in further detail and became more convinced than ever.
The whole city seems to be full-square behind the event. Sunderland City Council is beginning to listen to the area’s LGBT community, and the local police have recognised that there is an LGBT community outside of Newcastle. Also, South of Tyne and Wear NHS is working with the committee to provide a fantastic day.
The Pride movement began in New York in 1969 after gay rights campaigner Craig Rodwell thought people should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity, and should celebrate what they are. The fact that Pride is only just arriving in Sunderland, over forty years later, shows how long it can take for LGBT activities to be fully accepted in some communities. But when you see the partnerships it has helped forge, it is amazing to think what just two people with an idea and a few helping hands can achieve.
There are still opportunities for members in the area to get involved in the momentous event. The entertainment team is currently in the process of finding acts from cabaret to tribute bands and is asking for anyone that can lend a hand to get in touch: send them an email or visit the official Sunderland Pride 2011 website.
Sunderland Pride is supported by Crisco-Disco, Rush, Bar Luma and Diva and is in partnership with Sunderland City Council, Northumbria Police, Gentoo and Gay Advice Sunderland. It will be held on Sunday 25 September.
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