I’d like to begin by wishing Attitude a happy 21st birthday on behalf of Pride in London. The Attitude Pride Awards are an important moment. They are an opportunity to acknowledge people who embody the spirit of Pride — and what is that spirit if it isn’t the qualities of courage, energy and determination? That is why it is apt that these inaugural awards are being held on the occassion when Pride in London’s theme is ‘Heroes’.
‘Spirit’ and ‘Heroes’ go hand-in-hand when considering the history of LGBT+ rights because we have to thank the bravery and sheer hard work of thousands of people over so many years who have got us this far: to the point where the UK is judged to be the best country in Europe for LGBT+ people to live.
We enjoy legal rights and protections that could scarcely have been imagined a generation ago. But the need for bravery and hard work continues, here and around the world too, if we are to fully realise these rights and live freely e.g. without having to look over our shoulders before we lean in to kiss our partners goodbye at the bus stop.