Imperial celebrates Pride

Imperial joined thousands of people on the streets of London this weekend to march in the capital's annual Pride parade.

More than 26,000 people from over 300 groups marched the 1.4 mile route this year, making it the largest march in the event’s 45 year history. 

Watched by estimated crowds of a million people, the vibrant procession of floats, performers, and revellers made their way through central London to champion the rights of the LGBT+ community. 

The Imperial contingent was organised by Imperial 600, the College’s network for LGBT+ staff and postgraduate students. 

Caz Ulley, co-Chair of Imperial 600 said: “We felt it was really important for the College to march in Pride this year as it sends a strong message of solidarity with the LGBT+ community at Imperial. 

“The reaction to people seeing the College in the parade – cheering and shouting in recognition as we passed by with our banner– was certainly beyond what we were expecting and was a real reminder of the importance of showing the world the value that Imperial places on equality and diversity.”

Members of Imperial 600 were joined in the parade by family, friends and allies.

Fellow co-Chair, Dan Smith, added: "We’re lucky to be located in a country where LGBT+ rights have come a long way, and in a city which is known for its inclusiveness, but that doesn’t take away the need for our LGBT+ staff and students to feel that they are supported in being themselves in the place where they spend the largest amount of their time. It’s great that we had the chance to demonstrate that by taking part in the parade.

“It was also fantastic for Imperial 600 members to be able to come together as a network, alongside allies from across the College, for a day of celebration.”

Muir Sanderson, Chief Financial Officer at Imperial and Executive Sponsor of Imperial 600, joined the Imperial group on Saturday. He said: "I really enjoyed being a part of Pride. Diversity is central to Imperial’s success and it’s important that we celebrate it, this provided a welcome occasion to do just that. It was wonderful to see everyone having fun in the sunshine and to have the crowd calling out Imperial as the group marched along.  Thank you to Caz and Dan for organising such an a fantastic day. I'm looking forward to making next year even bigger, better and bolder"

Find out more about Imperial 600.