The Historic Market Town of Totnes in rural Devon, saw its third Pride event at the weekend, with more than 1,000 people attending.
Devon-based social enterprise Proud2Be Project, the organisers of the event, laid on a host of events in the town over the weekend to celebrate the local lesbian, gay, bisexual &/or trans+ (LGBT+) communities.
Mat Price, co-founder of the Proud2Be Project, described Saturday’s pride event as “an amazing day”.
Mat said; “The whole event went extremely smoothly. So many people commented upon how the atmosphere was so welcoming and inclusive – which is our mark of success. We all work really hard to put on Totnes Pride, so it is brilliant to see it grow every year.”
Soul Singer Joss Stone, who grew up in Devon, sent a message of support.
She said; “So sorry I couldn’t be there today. I think it’s beautiful when people come together and stand up for their right to be free and in love. More power to you.”
LGBT activists CN Lester and Jacq Applebee were guests at the event, and both made moving opening speeches.
MP for Totnes, Dr. Sarah Wollaston, showed her support by marching in the procession and later tweeting: “Great atmosphere & support for Totnes Pride today thanks to Proud2Be Project”
The day began with speeches from guests Jacq Applebee and CN Lester and Proud2Be founders Mat & Jon Price, who together with award-winning Samba Roc Band and an 8ft willow peacock, led the procession through the town, up to Totnes Civic Hall.
During the procession, Totnes Methodist Church once again showed their support by standing alongside two large banners in front of the church, with the message: “Christians for an inclusive world! God loves us all just as we are”.
This year Christians from other local churches joined them.
At Totnes Civic Hall attendees enjoyed a whole host of activities including workshops, talks and a variety of community stands.
The afternoon saw a panel discussion at The Barrel House Ballroom, where CN and Jacq were joined by local activists, Carole Steele and Alan Butler, to discuss the topic of gender. Former Town Councillor, Carol Wellwood, moderated the discussion.
The day event was brought to a close with a sold out after-party, held at The Seven Stars Ballroom. Partygoers enjoyed performances from Disco Funk band Golddust, Rococo Chanel and DJ sets from Madame Souza & Rhi Rhythm.
Proud2Be co-founder Jon, said; “For us Totnes Pride was not only an opportunity for our community to get together to celebrate diversity but to also raise awareness about the issues that are still faced by LGBT+ people and other minorities in rural parts of the country. The success of the event has sent a clear message to the rest of the country, that LGBT+ people do exist outside of large cities like London and Manchester and that Totnes embraces us and celebrates our difference. We are so proud to be living here in Totnes.”
“We would like to thank CN Lester and Jacq Applebee for helping to make this year’s Pride so special. We would also like to thank all of our amazing volunteers, Pride Action Group, and all of our generous funders, sponsors and supporters who helped make the event possible.”
For more information about Proud2Be, click here:
