Hello everyone
It's Lauren Atkin-Hill here. You may not always see me front and centre, but I’m still very much here – behind the scenes, on call, and always just a message away.
Exciting times ahead for OU Pride
Alongside myself as the LGBTQIA+ representative, Kit, our Chair, and KJ, our Vice-Chair, we’ve welcomed some wonderful new members into the OU Pride team – Oskar (our new secretary), Kevin, (Events Officer) and Kathy (Communications Officer). With fresh energy and ideas, we’re set for an amazing year together.
What's been happening
I thought I'd give you an update on what's been taking place worldwide within the LGBTQIA+ community:
- In January, Thailand legalised same-sex marriage, becoming the second country in Asia to do so. On the day the law was changed (Thursday, 23 January), over 1,800 couples tied the knot, including at a mass wedding in Bangkok. It's expected that this new law will give same-sex couples in Thailand the recognition they deserve, and the country's economy should also get a boost through jobs and tourism.
- On Saturday, 26 July, London Trans+ Pride 2025 saw over 100,000 people taking to the streets, making it the largest event of this kind ever held. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength, visibility, and resilience of our trans community.
- WorldPride took place in Washington from 17 May to 8 June, marking 50 years of Pride in the USA. This event is one of the largest global LGBTQ+ celebrations, and featured cultural exhibits, human rights talks, and performances from Jennifer Lopez, Shakira and RuPaul (among others). Over a million people are estimated to have attended – the spirit of unity remains powerful.
What's coming up
- Homotopia – This long-running LGBTQIA+ arts festival will take place in Liverpool during November, showcasing theatre, dance, film, photography, cabaret, and more.
- Bisexual Awareness Week runs from 16–23 September. It's a week dedicated to celebrating and promoting bisexual visibility and acceptance.
- Wear It Purple Day – this is an Australian awareness day which encourages participants to wear purple and celebrate LGBTQIA+ diversity. It's happening this year on Friday (29 August).
While there is so much to celebrate within the LGBTQIA+ community – moments of joy, resilience, and pride – we also know that the rest of the world hasn’t fully caught up yet. Progress is real, but so are the struggles, and it’s okay if things feel heavy sometimes. Remember, it’s not a weakness to feel tired or overwhelmed; it’s part of being human, especially when carrying both your own battles and those of a wider community.
Please know you don’t have to carry it all alone. We’re stronger when we lean on each other – whether that’s sharing laughter, swapping memes, or just having someone who listens without judgment. If you ever need a listening ear, a supportive shoulder, or simply a reminder that you are valued exactly as you are, my inbox is always open for you.
Lauren x