On Saturday, 27th July 2024, Liverpool was awash with rainbows and celebration as Pride in Liverpool unfolded across the city. Among the highlights of this unforgettable day was Access Pride, a trailblazing event organised by Sahir, which highlighted the values of inclusivity and accessibility for all within the LGBTQ+ community.
Born from Community Collaboration
Access Pride was not just an event but a movement sparked by the voices of the community. Earlier this year, in April, Sahir hosted the Queer Town Hall: Pride in the Community event at The Brink, a forum specifically for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together and share their aspirations, challenges, and needs. One key takeaway? Pride must be inclusive—not just in spirit, but in practice. From these heartfelt conversations emerged Access Pride, a standalone event outside the main Pride site, designed to address diverse access requirements and ensure that those who may not thrive in a busy environment felt truly welcomed at their Pride celebration.
A Day to Remember
Also hosted at The Brink, Access Pride provided a dedicated space for individuals who might otherwise face barriers to participating in traditional Pride events. From wheelchair-accessible pathways to sensory-friendly zones, every detail of Access Pride was carefully curated to ensure that no one was left out.
The event featured:
- BSL Interpreters: Ensuring the Deaf community could fully engage with performances and speeches.
- Quiet Zones: Spaces designed for neurodivergent attendees or those who needed a moment of calm amidst the vibrant celebrations.
- Accessible Facilities: From step-free access to gender-neutral restrooms, thoughtful accommodations were front and center.
- Diverse Programming: Performances, workshops, and talks that celebrated the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ experience, reflecting the community’s rich diversity.
Stories of Impact
The feedback from attendees spoke volumes about the success of Access Pride. Many shared how the event allowed them to participate in Pride for the very first time. One attendee, a wheelchair user, expressed their joy at being able to navigate the event effortlessly, saying, “It’s the first time I’ve felt truly seen and welcomed at Pride.” Another attendee, who is autistic, appreciated the sensory-friendly areas, sharing, “Having a space where I could take a break made the day enjoyable and stress-free.”
A Model for the Future
Access Pride’s success is a testament to the power of listening to the community and taking action. It was over subscribed, and footfall was constant throughout the day – standing out as a shining example of how events can prioritise inclusion, accessibility, and diversity without compromising on celebration and joy. By addressing the barriers that have historically excluded some members of the LGBTQ+ community, Sahir has set a benchmark for other organisations to follow.
What’s Next for Sahir?
The success of Access Pride has ignited conversations about what’s next. Sahir is committed to building on this momentum, continuing to create spaces that prioritise inclusivity and access. Discussions around how to grow and build on 2024’s Access Pride and expanded accessibility measures are already in the works, ensuring that the community’s needs remain at the heart of everything they do.
A Pride for Everyone
Access Pride wasn’t just an event; it was a promise—a commitment to the idea that Pride belongs to all of us, no matter our abilities, identities, or circumstances. As Liverpool Pride 2024 came to a close, Access Pride stood out not just for its thoughtful design but for its powerful message: inclusion is not optional. Thanks to Sahir and the voices of the community, this year’s Pride in Liverpool was truly a Pride for everyone.
