Rose Mabiza

23-02-2024

Pride Month 2025

Image by furmanphoto via Envato Elements

Celebrating activism and social change in the UK

Every June, communities around the world come together to honour the resilience, visibility, and history of LGBTQ+ individuals during Pride Month. In the United Kingdom, Pride Month 2025 is being celebrated under the bold and timely theme: “Activism and social change.” This theme is not only a tribute to the trailblazers who have fought for LGBTQ+ rights throughout history, but also a call to action for everyone to continue building a more inclusive and equitable future.y.

As colourful parades and community events take place across the UK, we are reminded that Pride is not only a celebration - it is a movement. A movement grounded in courage, love, and a relentless commitment to equality.

Why “Activism and social change” matters

The 2025 theme echoes a fundamental truth: LGBTQ+ rights have always been won through activism. From the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 to the legalisation of same-sex marriage in the UK in 2014, every stride toward equality has come through collective resistance, advocacy, and unwavering solidarity.

However, even in 2025, the work is far from over.

• LGBTQ+ youth are still disproportionately affected by mental health issues and bullying in schools.
• Trans and non-binary individuals continue to face systemic barriers to healthcare, legal recognition, and workplace inclusion.
• Hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity remain prevalent in many parts of the UK.
• Many workplaces lack comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality.

In light of these realities, “Activism and social change” is more than a slogan - it is a demand for transformation in policies, institutions, and social attitudes. This theme urges individuals, communities, and organisations to move beyond performative gestures and into meaningful action.

UK-wide ‘Pride’ observance

The UK joins the global community in celebrating Pride Month throughout June. A wide range of organisations, from advocacy groups and charities to local councils and corporate partners, are running events, campaigns, and educational programmes in honour of Pride. These efforts aim to promote awareness, inclusivity, and respect for the LGBTQ+ community.

Key events:

• Pride in London - 5 July, 2025

The country’s largest LGBTQ+ event, themed “Embracing every shade: Celebrating diversity together”, features a vibrant parade, performances, panel discussions, and inclusive community engagement. Organised by Pride in London CIC, this flagship event attracts hundreds of thousands of supporters and is a vital space for visibility and activism.

• Pride Cymru (Cardiff), Pride Canterbury, and others

Regional celebrations take place across the country, each showcasing the unique voices, needs, and stories of local LGBTQ+ communities. These events serve as safe, joyful, and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to connect, celebrate, and advocate.

• Educational campaigns

Schools, universities, and workplaces are hosting webinars, workshops, and cultural events focusing on LGBTQ+ rights, inclusive language, mental health, and the history of Pride.

How you can get involved this Pride Month

No matter your role - employer, educator, student, community member, or ally - you can be part of this movement for social change.

Here’s how:

• Educate yourself and others about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and intersectionality.
• Host conversations in your workplace or school to unpack bias and build inclusion.
• Support trans rights, advocate for inclusive healthcare, and amplify the voices of marginalised individuals.
• Join your local Pride event to show solidarity and celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Review your organisation’s DEI policies and embed inclusive practices.
• Donate to or volunteer with LGBTQ+ charities and advocacy groups.

Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a future where everyone can live freely, authentically, and safely.

Conclusion

As we mark Pride Month 2025, we honour the boldness of those who came before us, the resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals today, and the hope of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. The theme “Activism and social change” reminds us that equality is not guaranteed - it is built through collective effort, courage, and compassion.

Let us move forward - not just with celebration, but with commitment. Let this Pride Month be a turning point where awareness becomes action, and visibility leads to systemic change.

The role of organisations - Driving lasting change

At The Mandatory Training Group, we recognise that true inclusion goes beyond rainbow flags. Our work focuses on supporting organisations to create safe, respectful, and inclusive environments through robust training, governance, and compliance strategies.

Through our industry-leading ComplyPlus™, we help employers to:

• Implement inclusive policies aligned with the Equality Act 2010
• Deliver eLearning on unconscious bias, LGBTQ+ rights, and dignity at work
• Monitor Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) performance across teams
• Promote a workplace culture rooted in psychological safety and belonging.

Creating an LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace is not a one-time initiative - it is an ongoing journey that demands intentionality, education, and accountability. Pride Month is an ideal time to renew your commitment and take meaningful steps toward progress.

Last updated on 16-06-2025