Rutland and Stamford Pride to Proceed in Oakham Despite Organiser's Departure
Rutland and Stamford Pride to Proceed in Oakham Despite Organiser's Departure
Oakham, Rutland – Rutland and Stamford Pride will unequivocally go ahead as planned on Sunday, August 10th, in Oakham Market Place, despite the recent departure of one of its key organisers, Ali Macdonald. The announcement comes amidst a period of confusion, now clarified by remaining organiser Hannah Mae Carter.
Ali Macdonald, who had been instrumental in the event's organisation, released a statement expressing her decision to step down with "a heavy heart." Macdonald cited "a series of poor decisions and actions taken without my consent," leading her to feel "unfairly blamed for circumstances beyond my control." She concluded that her position had become "untenable."
In her statement, Macdonald conveyed her disappointment in the turn of events but extended her best wishes to the remaining organiser for this year's Pride celebration. She also expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the event.
Following Macdonald's announcement, Hannah Mae Carter, the sole remaining organiser, moved swiftly to reassure the public and participants. Carter confirmed that Rutland and Stamford Pride "WILL BE DEFINITELY still going ahead on SUNDAY 10th AUGUST in Oakham Market Place from 10 am to 11 pm."
Carter's clear message aims to dispel any uncertainty surrounding the future of the event. She concluded her statement with "Big love see you all there," and reciprocated Macdonald's well wishes, stating she wished Ali "all the best."
The confirmation ensures that the vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ pride will continue in Oakham, providing a vital platform for community, visibility, and solidarity in Rutland and Stamford. Despite the internal challenges, the commitment to holding the event remains strong, promising a full day of festivities and advocacy.
Editors Comment:
Disappointment as Rutland and Stamford Pride Parade Remains Absent:
While the confirmation that Rutland and Stamford Pride will proceed on August 10th in Oakham Market Place has been met with relief, a notable absence on the event's agenda continues to be a point of disappointment for many: the Pride parade. Despite advertising for the event featuring the spirit of a parade on social media, organisers have confirmed that, once again, there will be no traditional march through the streets.
For many within the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, a Pride parade is more than just a celebratory procession; it is a powerful statement of visibility, a collective assertion of rights, and a moment of joyous defiance. The act of marching together through public spaces serves as a potent symbol of progress, acceptance, and the ongoing fight for equality.
The absence of a parade for Rutland and Stamford Pride, therefore, is a missed opportunity to showcase the community's presence and strength in a highly visible and impactful way. While the market place festivities offer a valuable space for celebration and gathering, they cannot fully replicate the unique sense of empowerment and solidarity that a public march provides.
It is hoped that in future years, as Rutland and Stamford Pride continues to evolve and grow, the inclusion of a full-scale parade will become a cornerstone of the event, allowing the community to proudly take to the streets and amplify their message of love, acceptance, and diversity throughout Oakham and beyond.
Why Pride Marches Happen and Why They Are Important:
Pride marches, also known as Pride parades or protests, are vibrant and powerful demonstrations that celebrate LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and others) identity, advocate for equal rights, and honor the history of the movement. They are far more than just a party; they are a crucial act of visibility, community building, and ongoing protest
The origins of Pride marches are rooted in defiance and resistance, most notably the Stonewall Uprising. In the early hours of June 28, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York City. This was not an isolated incident; LGBTQ+ individuals and spaces were routinely subjected to police harassment and discrimination. However, on this night, the patrons fought back, sparking a series of protests and clashes with law enforcement that lasted for six days.
The Stonewall Uprising is widely considered a watershed moment that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. A year later, on June 28, 1970, the first Pride marches were held in New York City (known as Christopher Street Liberation Day), and in other major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago, to commemorate the anniversary of Stonewall and demand equal rights. These early marches were explicitly protests, with serious political demands at their core.
Here's why Pride marches are so profoundly important:
Visibility and Presence: For centuries, LGBTQ+ individuals were forced to live in the shadows, facing social stigma, legal persecution, and violence. Pride marches bring LGBTQ+ people and their allies into public spaces, making their existence undeniable. This visibility combats isolation, reduces prejudice, and helps to normalise diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
At their heart, Pride marches are still protests. While progress has been made in many parts of the world, LGBTQ+ people continue to face discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and often, violence. Marches serve as a powerful platform to call attention to these injustices, demand legal protections, and advocate for continued progress towards full equality.
Pride events provide a vital sense of community for LGBTQ+ individuals, many of whom may feel isolated in their daily lives. Marching together fosters solidarity, reduces feelings of shame, and creates a supportive environment where people can feel proud and be their authentic selves. It's a place to connect, share experiences, and build a stronger, more resilient community.
Pride is also a celebration of how far the movement has come. It's a joyful affirmation of identity, resilience, and the power of love. The vibrant colors, music, and festive atmosphere are a testament to the community's strength and determination in the face of adversity.
Pride marches serve as an educational opportunity for the wider public. They raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, history, and the ongoing struggles for human rights. By seeing LGBTQ+ people proudly celebrating their identities, misconceptions can be challenged and empathy fostered.
Pride is a time to remember the pioneers and activists who fought for LGBTQ+ rights, often at great personal cost. It's a reminder of the sacrifices made and the battles won, while also inspiring new generations to continue the fight for a truly equitable and inclusive future.
In essence, Pride marches are a critical blend of protest, celebration, and community building. They are a powerful reminder that while much has been achieved, the journey towards full liberation and acceptance for all LGBTQ+ people continues, and visible presence in public spaces remains a cornerstone of that ongoing effort.
Pride is not just a party in a park, something I believe all the previous organisers have forgotten.
