Chairs Eye View June
Pride is more than a moment in the calendar. It is a living, breathing reminder of the strength found in diversity, the power of community, and the importance of visibility. It is also a time to acknowledge the journeys, both personal and collective, that have brought us to where we are today.
Chairs Eye View
June Reflections
As we welcome June, we step into Pride Month, a time of celebration, reflection, and connection. Across the Civil Service, this month offers us a chance to reaffirm our shared commitment to inclusion, respect, and fairness for all, in line with the values that underpin our work: integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality.
Pride is more than a moment in the calendar. It is a living, breathing reminder of the strength found in diversity, the power of community, and the importance of visibility. It is also a time to acknowledge the journeys, both personal and collective, that have brought us to where we are today.
This year, the Civil Service LGBT+ Network and departmental networks across the UK have curated a vibrant and varied programme of events that reflect the richness of our community. From learning sessions to creative workshops, from community cafés to Pride parades, there is something for everyone, whether you’re a long-standing ally or just beginning your journey with us.
Celebrating Through Connection
One of the most powerful aspects of Pride is the opportunity it provides to connect. This month, colleagues are coming together in cities and towns across the UK to share stories, build friendships, and celebrate who we are.
Social events are taking place in Liverpool, Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, and Darlington, offering informal spaces for colleagues to meet, chat, and unwind. Whether it’s the Pre Pride Picnic in Wales, or the Sparkle Weekend Social in Manchester, these gatherings remind us that community is built not just through policy, but through presence.
For those who prefer quieter moments of connection, the Monthly Parents, Carers and Partners Coffee Chat offers a virtual space for support and solidarity, while the Virtual Book Club provides a chance to explore LGBT+ literature and share reflections.
Marching with Pride
This year, Civil Service LGBT+ Network are proudly marching in Pride parades across the UK, from Blackpool to Portsmouth, York to Edinburgh, and Portsmouth to Sunderland. These events are more than colourful celebrations; they are public affirmations of our values and our visibility. We’ll also be marching in Belfast, Glasgow, Manchester, Cardiff and London. There is still time to sign up to march with your Civil Service LGBT+ Network this Pride season. You can register your interest via the events section of our website.
Being present at Pride parades is a powerful act. It signals to our colleagues, our communities, and ourselves that we belong, that we are seen, supported, and celebrated. It also reflects the Civil Service’s ongoing commitment to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
Learning, Listening, and Growing
Pride is also a time for learning. This year’s programme includes a range of thought-provoking events designed to deepen understanding and spark conversation.
Highlights include:
SPECTRUM, Home Office’s LGBT+ Network is hosting a variety of events. Some highlights include:
“The Power of Community – Pride and the NB/Trans Community”, exploring the intersection of identity and belonging.
“Local Pride – Unsung Heroes”, shining a light on the contributions of those who often go unrecognised.
“A History of Pride as Protest”, reminding us of the roots of the movement and the resilience that continues to drive it forward.
“Civil Service Responding to Social Change” is a combined event hosted by Natural Resources Wales, the Health and Safety Executive, and the Welsh Government.
Creativity and Culture
Pride is also a celebration of culture and creativity. This year’s calendar includes a Queer Crafting Event in Wales, a Creative Workshop, and a special event titled “The Proud History of Eurovision” a joyful nod to the role of music and performance in LGBT+ expression.
These events remind us that Pride is not just about policy or protest, it’s also about joy, art, and the freedom to express ourselves fully.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, we do so with hope and determination. Pride Month is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, but also to acknowledge the work that remains. While we continue to make progress, we know that for many in our community, the path is not always easy.
In subtle ways, we are reminded that visibility still matters. That inclusion is not a given, but a practice. And that our values, when lived out with empathy and courage, can help shape a Civil Service that truly reflects the society it serves.
A Personal Note
To everyone who has organised, attended, or supported a Pride event this month, thank you. Your energy, creativity, and commitment are what make this community so special.
To those who may be watching from the sidelines, unsure of where they fit in, know that there is space for you here. Pride is for everyone. And whether you join a parade, attend a talk, or simply take a moment to reflect, your presence matters.
As we move into July, we will carry the spirit of Pride with us, not just as a celebration, but as a commitment. A commitment to each other, to our values, and to the kind of workplace, and world, we want to build.