Houseproud wins Best Parade Entry at this year's Manchester Pride
We are delighted to announce that THT and L&Q’s LGBT+ network Spectrum won Best Parade Entry at Manchester Pride alongside fellow HouseProud North members.
Spectrum took part with Houseproud North, the collective group for social landlord LGBT+ staff networks, which THT’s Spectrum recently joined.
Setting off from Deansgate and winding its way through the city centre, the winning float was awash with colourful balloons, flags, placards, and t-shirts handmade by HouseProud North members and residents.
Thirteen housing associations joined forces to organise and take part in HouseProud North’s float at the much-anticipated parade.
Alyson Heald, Partnerships Director at L&Q said:
“A big well done to Spectrum for ensuring we were part of the winning float at Manchester Pride. At L&Q we are proud to show our unequivocal support for the LGBT+ community.
“This year, the parade theme, ‘March for Peace’ condemned all the conflicts around the world and called for a future where nobody is a victim of violence, no matter their identity, country of origin, or social situation.
“As an organisation, we stand firmly behind this message and are committed to doing our part to create safe communities and peaceful places for our residents and colleagues.”
HouseProud's winning float
Manchester Pride’s procession made a welcome return to the city – as thousands united and cheered on the LGBT+ community at one of the largest celebrations in the UK.
After a three-year hiatus, vibrant costumes and rainbow banners filled the city centre to promote this year’s theme of peace.
Meanwhile, our Northwest colleagues’ Pride celebrations were mirrored in London and attended by their southern counterparts.
L&Q staff joined London Pride in July with their local HouseProud group – raising awareness, challenging discrimination, and celebrating the LGBT+ community. This year’s celebration included a few first-time marchers, with one commenting on the ‘feel good factor’ they experienced after being in such an open and inclusive environment.
Spectrum was launched in 2012 for LGBT+ colleagues and allies and this year marks its tenth anniversary.
The network represents L&Q staff members in the south and THT staff members in the Northwest and carries out a range of activities. From supporting LGBT+ people who have experienced negative encounters in or outside of work, to providing awareness training to frontline colleagues on issues affecting the LGBT+ community.