UK Black Pride

UK Black Pride is Europe’s largest celebration of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and Caribbean heritage LGBTQ people. It takes place in London, usually at Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens beside the river. The event began in 2005 as a simple day trip to Southend-on-Sea for members of an online group. Over the years it has grown into a major annual gathering with around 25,000 visitors. The organisation was founded by Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll, who remains its executive director. In 2018 Stonewall, Europe’s largest LGBT rights charity, ended its support for Pride in London because of concerns about diversity. Instead Stonewall partnered with UK Black Pride and agreed a joint programme of work in 2019. That same year British Vogue published an interview with Lady Phyll about the need for a dedicated black LGBT pride event in the UK. Visitors find music stages, food stalls and community tents spread across the gardens. There are speeches by activists and performances by artists from the communities celebrated. The atmosphere is lively and inclusive, with people of all backgrounds welcome. The event also offers information and resources from supporting organisations. It remains a powerful space for visibility and celebration in the heart of London.