UK Black Pride 2023: When is it and where is the celebration taking place?

Last weekend saw thousands of people march in London’s annual Pride parade celebrating  the LGBTQ+ community.

The theme of this year’s parade was ‘Never March Alone’ in support of trans allyship and around 30,000 people took part in the march between Hyde Park and Whitehall.

Later this summer another event and protest celebrating LGBTQ+ culture is to take place: UK Black Pride.

Here is everything we know so far about this year’s event.

What is UK Black Pride?

UK Black Pride (UKBP) is a black gay pride event in London that has taken place since 2005.

It is Europe’s largest celebration of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and Caribbean heritage lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people.

The event was co-founded by political activist Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll.

The event began 18 years ago as a day trip to Southend-on-Sea by members of the online social network Black Lesbians in the UK (BLUK).

Last year a record breaking 25,000 people gathered in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to celebrate the event.

When is this year’s event taking place?

This year UK Black Pride will take place on Saturday August 19 from 12pm to 8pm.

Where is it on?

The event will be held at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford.

What are organisers saying?

UK Black Pride co-founder and Executive Director Lady Phyll Opoku-Gyimah says, “When myself and a group of Black lesbians set out to create our own Pride event, as the others felt exclusive and unwelcoming, we were told we’d never get anyway. That no one would support us and that any community built around a ‘Black pride’ would fade away.

“Here we are, 18 years later. Bigger, bolder, braver and brighter than ever. It’s been a journey, and we have to thank everyone from the community that has been with us at every and any stage. 2023 marks a historic year for us, and to be able to return to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where we saw 25,000 people share their joy and queerness with us, is incredible.

“We cannot wait to welcome our family back and continue to leave a legacy for the next generation of Black and POC queer love and progress.”

Mayor of London

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Black Pride in London is an incredible event – the world’s largest celebration for African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and Caribbean-heritage LGBTQI+ people. But it’s not just a celebration, it’s a moment to raise awareness and recommit to the fight for equality.

“It’s clear that the struggle to end stigmatisation and inequality is far from over, both here at home and around the world, which is why UK Black Pride is more vital than ever.

“I encourage Londoners and visitors to attend this free and fun event for everyone, with great food, live music, a community area hosting talks and workshops, and involvement from charities and small businesses at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

“Our capital city will always be a place where diversity is celebrated and I’m incredibly proud to stand with members of our Black LGBTQI+ communities and allies who will unite this weekend.”