37 BSMHFT colleagues will be taking to the streets of Birmingham on Saturday (27 May) to celebrate the 25-year anniversary of Birmingham Pride.
Expected to attract more than 75,000 people over the course of this weekend, Birmingham Pride has become one of the most important LGBTQ+ festivals in the UK. On Saturday, 37 BSMHFT staff members will be joining 10 other local NHS Trusts in the Birmingham Pride Parade march, proudly showing our solidarity for equality.
Tens of thousands of participants will be aboard creatively decorated floats or walking, marching, singing and dancing to highlight the importance of equality and justice.
Debbie Gall, Clinical Nurse Specialist and Co-Chair of our LGBTQ+ Staff Network said:
“BSMHFT are proud to be participating in the Birmingham Pride Parade 2023. Commencing at 12pm, Centenary Square and ending at Hurst Street, the Parade is free for spectators to watch. This year we are delighted to have our LGBTQ+ Staff Network Executive Sponsor Vanessa Devlin walking with us and showcasing what it means to be an ally. We will also have LGBTQ+ service users attending the event with our teams too. The Pride Parade is a march for equality and justice, after all there is no pride without protest. It’s a reminder that we will continue to fight for equality and a celebration of our beautiful LGBTQ+ community.
“As Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network I’m proud to be continuing the tradition of marching in the parade and representing BSMHFT with LGBTQ+ staff, service users and allies. The importance of visibility shouldn’t be underestimated. The feeling of being seen, represented, and accepted is fundamental to our wellbeing.”
Last year, our NHS parade proved to be a huge hit with spectators, staff members also had an incredible time celebrating LGBTQ+ achievements, life, and love.
To those at the event this weekend, we wish you all a safe and happy Birmingham Pride! 🌈
