Perhaps now would be a good time for every LGBT Pride event to:
- Have a top level ethos and mission to be for all LGBT people and not to be oppressive
- Have a clear strategy and policy of positive anti-discrimination, diversity and equality, to include at least all equality strands or protected characteristics: Be clear that Pride will work to be a space free of homophobia, biphobia and transphobia and also of racism, discrimination against the disabled, sexism etc. Mention every strand so it is clear they are all important. Make sure everyone working together is committed to agreed strategy
- Have procedures for effecting anti-discrimination policy: check with possibly affected groups that strategic and tactical decisions do not adversely affect them (ideally, the management of Pride would already include such voices), deal with community concerns properly, make sure codes of conduct are agreed and binding on partners too and lobby for statutory bodies to work to the same standards
- Make sure appropriate guidance and training are in place and refreshed regularly to make sure everyone is acting in accordance with an anti-oppression ethos of Pride
- Reflect on any problems or concerns and update policy and practice in line with best practice and help others do the same. Get help and advice as needed and don’t exploit oppressed groups further in doing so.
Perhaps now would be a good time for LGBT people to ensure their local Pride will do this.
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