The vibrant heart of Brighton & Hove was filled Trans Joy on Saturday, July 20 where Trans Pride Brighton & Hove 2024 unfolded in a spectacular display of solidarity, joy, and resilience. The city’s streets came alive with a sea of TNBI & LGBTQ+ flags as an estimated 45,000 people gathered to celebrate the transgender and non-binary community in a triumphant showcase of love and acceptance.
This year’s Trans Pride event, spread across four bustling venues in the city centre, was a testament to the strength and visibility of the trans and non-binary community. Allies, families, and tens of thousands of trans and non-binary individuals turned out in force, their presence a powerful statement of unity and support.
The air was electric with excitement as attendees of all ages, backgrounds, and identities came together to march for equality. The diversity on display was truly heartening – from elders who had fought for trans rights for decades to wide-eyed children experiencing their first Pride event, the crowd represented the full spectrum of the TNBI, QTIPOC and LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
As the large vocal protest march wound its way through Brighton’s historic streets, bringing the city to a standstill, it was impossible to ignore the strong political undercurrents that ran through the event. Marchers carried banners and placards that spoke volumes about the ongoing struggles faced by the trans community – ‘Trans Rights Are Human Rights’, ‘Protect Trans Youth’, and ‘F*&K the Cass Review’ were just a few of the powerful messages on display.
Check out Trans Prides Facebook page for a host of amazing photo’s from the day
There was overwhelming support for trans children. Countless signs and chants echoed the urgent need to safeguard the youngest members of the trans community. Parents marched alongside their trans children, with pride and determination. It was a poignant reminder that the fight for equality is not just about the present, but about securing a brighter, more accepting future for generations to come.
The atmosphere was a perfect blend of celebration and activism. While the dummers drumbed and glitter sparkled in the summer sun, there was no mistaking the resolute determination of the attendees. Our community united in its demand for change, for acceptance, and for the right to live authentically without fear or discrimination.
Brighton, long known as a bastion of LGBTQ+ culture in the UK, truly outdid itself for Trans Pride 2024. The entire city centre was transformed into a gender queer wonderland, with every corner seemingly dedicated to the celebration. From the bustling food stalls offering an array of cuisines to the pop-up shops selling TNBI merchandise, the event had something for everyone.
The four main venues – each with its own unique flavour – were packed to the brim with revellers. At the Brighton Corn Exchange, a series of vibrant thumping bands took over the stages, thrilling the audience. New Steine Garden hosted a community village with stalls covering topics from trans healthcare to workplace inclusivity along with a hugely popular DJ dance tent.
Dorset Gardens hosted a family-friendly picnic area, with a live stage of singers, and performers, community food stalls and crafters alongside community activists’ stalls with face painting and storytelling sessions that captivated children and adults alike. The Dorset Gardens stage saw speeches from prominent trans activists interspersed with show-stopping performances. The Mayor of Brighton & Hove also appeared and joined the attendees to meet, talk to and celebrate the hard work of the diverse communities creating a family friendly space in Dorset Gardens.
Over at Jubilee Square, a line-up of trans and non-binary speakers spoke to the urgent need for change, their words moving the crowd and getting the march off to an energised start. And at the heart of it in the evening the Corn Exchange hosted a huge packed fundraiser and was epicentre of the evening’s celebrations.
Social media was flooded with images from across the city, of people having the best of time, check out Chris Jepsons’ Insta for a range of photo’s from across the day & venues.
The crowds had an overwhelming sense of joy and liberation. Smiling faces, laughter, and countless moments of connection and solidarity. Trans and non-binary individuals of all ages proudly displayed their true selves, for some – the first time in a public setting. The love and support from allies was palpable, creating a safe space where everyone could be unapologetically themselves. With people from across the UK and Europe, people from Australia, Canada, and South America taking part in this affirming event.
The weather celebrating along with the attendees, with blue skies and warm sunshine bathing the city in a golden glow. The pleasant conditions added to the festival atmosphere, as people spilled out of venues and into the streets, turning the entire city centre into one giant party. Sunset saw a huge pink bow across the city, as a blessing on this hugely successful day.
It’s worth noting that Trans Pride Brighton is more than just a one-day event. The organisers, a dedicated group of volunteers, work tirelessly throughout the year to create this inclusive and empowering space. Their efforts showcase what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision and unwavering commitment.
The success of Trans Pride Brighton 2024 is testament to the hard work and passion of these volunteers. From securing permits and coordinating with local businesses to arranging speakers and ensuring safety measures were in place, every detail was meticulously planned. The result was an event that ran smoothly from start to finish, allowing attendees to focus on what really mattered – celebrating their identities and advocating for their rights. Trans Pride is a model of accessibility and inclusion, keeping these principals at the heart of all it does.
As the sun began to set on this remarkable day, the energy showed no signs of waning. The streets of Brighton remained alive with the spirit of pride and defiance and the chants of “Trans rights now!” continued to echo through the night air.
Trans Pride Brighton 2024 was more than just a celebration – it was a powerful statement of existence, resilience, and hope. In a world where trans rights are often under threat, where discrimination and violence against the trans community persist, events like this serve as a crucial reminder of the strength and beauty of the trans and non-binary community.
The overwhelming turnout, the passionate displays of solidarity, and the joyous atmosphere all point to a community that is not just surviving, but thriving. It’s a community that refuses to be silenced or pushed into the shadows, one that stands proud and demands to be seen, heard, and respected.
There was a sense of optimism for the future. The success of Trans Pride Brighton 2024 shows that change is possible, that acceptance is growing, and that the fight for trans rights is gaining momentum.
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