Brighton Pride 2026: Joy, Defiance and the Power of Standing Together
Brighton Pride has always been a celebration of colour, community and unapologetic queerness, but this year it felt even more significant.
I marched with the Brighton Bears this year and was reminded just how powerful community can be. From the moment the parade began, there was an incredible sense of togetherness, allyship and support. Everywhere I looked, people were celebrating diversity, standing shoulder to shoulder and showing that Pride is at its very best when we come together as one community.
One moment that stayed with me was hearing people in the crowd shouting messages of support as we marched past. Complete strangers were applauding, waving Pride flags and cheering us on. The streets were packed with people of all ages, many dressed in bright colours, glitter and rainbow flags, creating an incredible sea of positivity that stretched as far as I could see.
The energy was infectious. Every few metres there were people dancing to the music, singing along, high-fiving marchers and encouraging everyone taking part. The cheers seemed to roll down the streets like a wave, growing louder as each group passed by. There was a genuine feeling of joy, but also a sense of determination and solidarity that felt especially important this year.
One particular moment caught me by surprise. As we passed through one section of the route, a woman standing at the roadside caught my eye and simply said,”Keep being you. We support you.” It was only a few words, but they stopped me in my tracks for a moment. We exchanged smiles, and then the parade carried on. She will probably never know how much that small act of kindness meant, but it perfectly captured the spirit of the day.
As someone who knows how difficult the last year has been for many trans people, it was genuinely moving. For a few moments, all the noise of social media, political arguments and negativity seemed to fade away. Looking around, what I saw instead were thousands of people choosing kindness, acceptance and community.
It reminded me that allyship is not always found in grand gestures or speeches. Sometimes it is found in a smile, a wave, a cheer from the crowd or a stranger making it clear that you belong. Those moments may seem small, but for people who are feeling vulnerable or uncertain, they can mean the world.
And Preston Park? Absolutely brilliant.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric. Performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race lit up the stage, while RuPaul’s DJ set brought energy, joy and a sense of celebration that rippled through the crowd.
Then came the artists whose voices carry weight far beyond music: Self Esteem, Jessie J and RAYE. Each took time to speak in support of the trans community. Their words mattered. At a time when many trans people feel under attack, seeing high-profile artists use their platforms to show solidarity was both powerful and reassuring.
For many trans people, this is a frightening time. Across social media, in the press and in everyday life, there is a level of hostility and scrutiny that can feel exhausting and overwhelming. Some people are genuinely worried about what the future holds and whether society is moving backwards instead of forwards.
Those fears are not imagined.
Many trans people are carrying the weight of anxiety, isolation and uncertainty while simply trying to exist authentically. At a time when many trans people are feeling scared, exhausted and under pressure, the support of allies can make the difference between someone feeling isolated and someone feeling they belong.
That is why allyship matters so much.
When friends, families, colleagues, employers, community organisations and other LGBTQ+ groups stand beside trans people, it sends a powerful message that we are not alone. Support does not always have to be loud to be meaningful. Sometimes it is checking in on someone, challenging misinformation, using the correct name and pronouns, or making sure people know they are welcome and included.
At a time when many trans people feel vulnerable, allyship is not just appreciated, it is essential. Pride has always been strongest when every part of our community stands together and refuses to leave anyone behind.
One of the most moving moments of the day came during Lola Lasagne’s speech.
Lola spoke honestly about the challenges facing the trans community and the impact that hatred and hostility can have on people’s lives. But what stood out most was the reminder that Pride has always been more than a party.
Pride is a protest.
Pride is visibility.
Pride is community.
And Pride is about refusing to let fear have the final word.
The message was not one of despair. It was one of resilience, courage and hope. A reminder that even during difficult times, we are stronger when we stand together.
Brighton Pride reminded me that allyship is still alive and well. It was there in the speeches, in the banners, in the cheers from the crowd and in the thousands of people who turned up to celebrate and support one another.
Most importantly, it was there in the sense of community.
Because when times are tough, communities matter. We lift each other up. We create spaces where people feel safe and valued. We remind each other that no one has to face challenges alone.
Brighton Pride wasn’t just a celebration. It was a declaration of hope.
A reminder that the LGBTQ+ community is strongest when we stand together. At a time when many trans people are feeling vulnerable, frightened or uncertain, allyship has never been more important. Every voice raised in support, every organisation that stands by its values and every person willing to challenge hatred helps create a safer world for us all.
As I left Preston Park, I felt encouraged. Yes, there are challenges ahead. But I was reminded that there are still countless people willing to stand beside the trans community.
We are still here.
We are still proud.
And together, we will keep moving forward.
Daividh