Following last year’s overwhelming success, Manchester Pride is thrilled to announce the return of the Human Rights Forum at the 2023 Manchester Pride Festival.
The Human Rights Forum is a pivotal event that serves as a stark reminder of Pride’s roots – a protest, a demonstration against systemic issues, and a catalyst for change.
In the spirit of the festival, the Human Rights Forum is a testament to Manchester Pride’s commitment to enhance the visibility of LGBTQ+ issues and relentlessly advocate for equality. This year’s theme, “Stop the Hate,” honours the 20th anniversary of the repeal of Section 28, a damaging prohibition of homosexuality introduced in 1988. This significant milestone shows the collective strength of the LGBTQ+ community in challenging and changing unjust legislation.
The theme also serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing struggle against hate. Despite the victories and progress, discriminatory practices in politics, media, and legislation, especially against the trans community, remain a poignant issue in 2023. The call to ‘Stop the Hate’ resounds louder than ever.
The Human Rights Forum will provide a platform for reflection, learning, and inspiration. Key individuals instrumental in the fight for equality and the repeal of Section 28 will take the stage. The forum aims to shine a light on the ongoing battles of the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on the safety and rights of the trans community, as well as necessary actions for change.
Taking place at Sackville Gardens, the Human Rights Forum 2023 boasts a distinguished roster of speakers:
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Cheddar Gorgeous: An acclaimed drag performer and activist from Manchester, known for their notable finish as the runner-up on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
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Charlie Craggs: An award winning trans activist, and author, scheduled to deliver an empowering speech.
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mandla: Zimbabwean-born, agender and queer writer and performer known for inspiring trans people, especially Black trans youth, through spoken word.
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Husk: A trans masc non-binary person discussing personal experiences under Section 28 and its impact on the community.
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Kath McDermott: A DJ at the legendary Hacienda and influential figure from the protests against Section 28, sharing unique insights.
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Ben Pechey: An author, DE&I consultant and prominent LGBTQ+ activist advocating for trans-non-binary representation.
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Prof. Catherine Lee: A seasoned educator with an MBE for LGBTQ+ inclusion, whose diaries on teaching during Section 28 inspired the BAFTA-nominated film “Blue Jean”.
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Dominic Lawson: A singer and musician from Manchester discussing intersectionality and performing ‘Stand Up for Love’.
The Human Rights Forum will take place in Sackville Gardens on The Alan Turing stage, audiences will be inspired to become change makers within our communities. After the event attendees will be encouraged to head to the Activism Hub, found on Community Lane throughout the weekend.
There people can find practical resources to help take action and write to MPs to ask for them to advocate for the Equality and Human Rights Commission to implement an independent panel of trans and non-binary people. The ‘nothing about us without us’ position will ensure that policies are written with a stronger understanding of trans identities and issues.
The Manchester Pride Festival, the proud winner of ‘Best Large Festival’ in 2022, returns this August Bank Holiday weekend (25-28 August) in partnership with Booking.com, featuring a diverse line-up of local and international artists. The festival includes the Gay Village Party, Manchester Pride Parade, Superbia Weekend, Human Rights Forum, Family Pride MCR, Youth Pride MCR, and culminates in a Candlelit Vigil.
Tickets for the Gay Village Party are available on Ticketmaster. £2.50 from each ticket goes to the Manchester Pride Community Fund, benefiting LGBTQ+ causes in Greater Manchester.
Mark Fletcher, CEO of Manchester Pride, emphasises, “Manchester Pride is not merely a celebration; it is a decisive stand against hate and a persistent push for positive change. This year, more than ever, we urge everyone to participate, confront hate, and choose kindness.”
