On Saturday, Solihull welcomed its inaugural Pride celebration, a momentous occasion for the town centre and the wider borough.
Many residents of Solihull and surrounding areas turned out in support to enjoy the day which included a parade, music from tribute acts, drag acts and reality show celebrities.
As proud sponsors, Solihull College & University Centre took part in the parade with students and staff – both part of the LGBT+ community and allies – walking through the town centre celebrating inclusion and belonging amongst a sea of colour and vibrancy.
Organisers Solihull Bid worked with a steering group of local people within the LGBT+ community, working or living in Solihull, to ensure the event was fun and inclusive for everyone.
Sarah Breslin, staff Pride Network Lead for the College, and member of the steering group who organised the event, commented: “I’ve lived or worked in Solihull my whole life and I think it’s really important that Solihull has a Pride event – it’s something that we have been missing. Supporting this event supports the whole community – it’s about inclusivity, diversity and will bring a sense of belonging and visibility for people from the LGBT+ community.”
On its legacy, Sarah added: “We hope this will not just be one-off event and we won’t just be celebrating Pride Month or LGBT History Month, this will be woven into the fabric of Solihull and demonstrate who we are as a community – that people can feel comfortable and safe across Solihull.”
Students enjoyed and valued the day, taking the lead for the College in the Parade, being proactive and engaged and meeting with former students who turned up in support.
Student EDI & Enrichment Manager, Grace Wynne Willson, commented: “Attending the first-ever Solihull Pride with our students was a truly inspiring experience. It was a celebration of inclusion, community and a chance for our students to see that they are accepted and valued just as they are. It’s moments like these that help shape a more compassionate and open-minded future.”
