North East Pride celebrations to be 'unapologetic'

Peter Darrant, chair of Out North East, with Sunderland council leader Graham Miller and other supporters at the launch of Pride in Sunderland

Celebrations of the North East's LGBTQ+ community will be "unapologetically visible" this year, organisers say.

A change of direction for Pride events in the region will see Newcastle and Sunderland welcome revamped versions of the global celebration this summer.

Newcastle's Pride in the City event will bring an estimated 80,000 people to the heart of the city in July, while Sunderland will host month-long celebrations.

Both city councils are supporting the revitalised festivities.

'For everyone'

New charity Out North East is organising a month-long celebration in Sunderland.

Coinciding with International Pride Month, Sunderland's festival is planned for June, and will feature events designed "not only for the LGBTQ+ community, but for everyone".

It has been organised with support from Sunderland Council and Sunderland BID.

Out North East chair Peter Darrant said all parties are "fully behind making Pride in Sunderland an integral part of the city's events calendar".

Throughout June, the city will host celebratory events, talks and educational activities.

Sunderland council leader Graeme Miller said: “Pride in Sunderland will be a celebration of our LGBTQ+ community and its allies but there are opportunities for everyone to get involved, show their support and have fun while celebrating equality and diversity in our city.”

Following Pride in Sunderland, the charity will host similar celebrations in South Tyneside and Gateshead, in July and August respectively.

Newcastle City Council leader Nick Kemp and Northern Pride director Ste Dunn

Newcastle's celebration, Northern Pride, has traditionally been held on the outskirts of the city.

With an "unapologetically visible" theme, the event will move into the heart of the city over the weekend of 19-21 July.

Director Ste Dunn said: "We’re using our festival to highlight the vibrant and beautiful queer community, the valuable impact they have on society and the richness of their talents.

"This is a very different look, but our core messages remain the same."

Newcastle City Council leader Nick Kemp said: “Bringing it right into the heart of Newcastle will mean more people than ever before can get involved and it will truly become a city-wide celebration.”

A host of artists and events will be announced in coming weeks.