Political Pride sees a weekend of alternative LGBT events

This year, with Manchester Pride celebrating its 25th anniversary, it's worth remembering that the roots of the event were grounded in political activism rather than a big weekend of drinking and dancing. 

Some argue that, as the rights of LGBT communities in the UK have progressed, the emphasis for most Pride events has shifted from one of such activism to one of celebrations, and whilst there's nothing wrong with enjoying the freedoms fought for and won, it isn't as many of the issues which faced LGBT people quarter of a century ago have gone entirely.

This year will an alternative to the main Pride event. Political Pride will be happening over the 29th - 30th August, and seeks to offer a space for LGBT people who feel Pride no longer speaks for them, who may be marginalised within their own community or who just aren't into the pubs and clubs of the Village and find the whole thing too exhausting!  

A programme of events includes cake baking competitions, poetry readings, meditation, as well as examinations and discussions around various oppressed groups such as LGBT asylum seekers, whilst there are spaces for children and families and even a creche. Venues include Manchester's LGBT Centre, the People's History Museum, All Saints Park and the MMU.

Find out more at the Political Pride website.

See more about Manchester Pride.