Council shows support for Exeter Pride
Councillors, staff and colleagues from voluntary and public sectors attended a flag flying ceremony at County Hall to mark Exeter Pride, which takes place today (Saturday 10 May).
The flag was raised at the entrance to County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, by Chief Executive, Phil Norrey.
Mr Norrey, said: "The county council is delighted to mark the 6th Exeter Pride event and next week’s International day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) by flying the rainbow flag outside our Exeter Headquarters. We have come a long way over the past few years but there is still much to do ensure that to ensure that members of the LGBT feel safe in being ‘out’."
Tom Grigor of Exeter Pride, said: "I am so proud to see the flag flying here today as a symbol, not just to the staff of Devon County Council but to every person that drives along Tophsam Road, that Devon is committed to fighting for and promoting equality for its Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans communities.
"As such a large employer throughout Devon, it is great to see Devon County Council lead the way in its positive attitutudes to equality and diversity in the workplace.
"Exeter Pride is staging its sixth annual event tomorrow. We have worked hard over the past 12 months to make sure that it is the biggest and most successful event we've ever had, and we could not have done it without the contniued backing of Devon County Council who have been a key funder and supporter for many years."
The first Gay Pride was held in New York City following the Stonewall Riots of 1969 and is now held annually in many cities across the world.
Pride parades aim to address the oppression experienced by many LGB&T people in society; by promoting self-affirmation, dignity and rights through increased visibility and community celebration.
The sixth Exeter Pride takes place on Saturday 10 May and promises to be the biggest, most colourful event to date, with more than 2,000 people expected to take part in the parade down Exeter’s High Street and attend a full programme of activities held at Exeter Phoenix in Gandy Street.
A flag was also raised at Barnstaple Civic Centre in recognition that many people from all over Devon attend Exeter Pride.
For more information visit www.exeterpride.co.uk
