Pride is not just a moment; it’s a movement

Pride is not just a celebration; it is a testament to the courage and resilience of individuals who have faced adversity and discrimination simply because of who they are and whom they love. It is a symbol of unity, solidarity, and the unwavering pursuit of a world where everyone can embrace their true selves without fear or shame. 

Pride month is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the past. We acknowledge the pioneers who fought for our rights, paving the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. Their voices, once stifled and marginalised, have shaped our existence today. We owe them a debt of gratitude, and it is our responsibility to carry their torch forward, but we cannot forget that our fight for equality is far from over. Despite the progress that we have made, discrimination and prejudice continue to persist in our society. Transgender individuals face alarming rates of violence and discrimination, while people of diverse sexual orientations are subjected to bigotry and systemic inequality. We must stand together, shoulder to shoulder, to challenge and dismantle these injustices. 

Pride is not just a moment; it is a movement. It calls upon us to be catalysts for change, to use our collective power to build a more inclusive world. Each of us has a role to play, whether it is through advocating for legislation that safeguards our rights, supporting organisations that provide vital services to the community, or simply being a beacon of acceptance and an ally within our own circles. We should strive for empathy and understanding, recognising that everyone’s journey is unique, and our differences should be celebrated and not feared. Embracing our diversity will help to enrich our communities, workplaces, and profession. To the members of our profession who may be grappling with their identities or struggling to find acceptance, know that you are not alone. The world is changing, and as you step into your authentic selves, remember that your resilience and authenticity will inspire countless others to do the same. 

The British Veterinary LGBT+ society was established in 2016 with the aim of building a community for LGBT+ veterinary professionals and students. The group provides support, friendship and allyship, whilst campaigning and educating within the profession. Each year we march at London Pride and other pride events across the country, hold an annual member’s weekend and meet at other larger veterinary conferences. We also support students through our travel grant scheme for attending our events and pride meetings. 

Join us for Pride 2023

This year we will be marching at Cardiff Pride on 17 June and London Pride on 1 July; meeting at BVA Headquarters before joining in the parade through London. If you’re interested in becoming a member or joining us for either event, please check out our website or our social media pages for further information. 

Contact James Whitmore for more information at [email protected].