Lead Pic: Dominic Russell (Onboard Manager of Hull Trains, a key supporter of the event), Jenny Dewsnap (Chair, Doncaster Pride), Jonathan Blake and Mike Jackson (Lesbians and Gays Support The Miners).
On the 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike, Mike Jackson and Jonathan Blake from Lesbians and Gays Support The Miners will be guests of honour at UK Pride in Doncaster on Saturday, August 10.
The story of Mike and Jonathan inspired the hit 2014 film Pride, which depicts a group of lesbian and gay activists who raised money to help families affected by the British miners’ strike in 1984.
Mike and Jonathan will be attending a special showing of Pride, as well as taking part in the parade which will start on Duke Street at 10:30am. Other highlights on the day include performances from popular dance company Punjabi Roots and drag queen Shania Pain.
Mike said: “There is no greater pride for any LGBTQ+ person than taking part in a Pride march. That is especially true this year, because Doncaster has the honour of hosting UK Pride which will be led by our allies from the former mining communities.”
Jonathan added: “We can’t wait to mark the 40th anniversary of the strike and the historic solidarity made between the miners and the LGBTQ+ community.”
Jenny Dewsnap, Chair of Doncaster Pride, said: “We’re thrilled to have Mike and Jonathan joining us in Doncaster. The story told in the movie is one of solidarity between two unlikely allies, a solidarity that’s still strong today 40 years on.”