The streets of Basildon were filled with a tidal wave of colour and noise as the town’s LGBTQ+ community descended on Gloucester Park for a day of celebrations.
Basildon Pride has celebrated its biggest year on record as an estimated 5,500 people dressed up in their loudest and most eye-catching outfits to send a message of acceptance and visibility across the town.
After its launch in 2018, Basildon Pride has quickly become a highlight of the events calendar, with organisers delighted with the increasing numbers and changing attitudes toward the event as attendees from different backgrounds expressed support.
Emily Patten, 34, who attended with her niece, believes holding the event in Basildon matters and helps bring understanding to younger people.
She said: “For me, it is important to see that we hold celebrations in smaller towns and areas.
“It is important to improving open-mindedness. I have been to London Pride and it is so much bigger and that is good, but it then means events like this go under the radar.
“I do think that every time this is held it is important for the younger generations as it does help foster kindness and understanding.”
Melanie Ashby, 23, and Morgan Ashby, 26, travelled from Canvey to Basildon Pride, and were happy to see so many families attending the event.
Melanie said: “I feel attitudes are slowly changing over time. There are lots of families and different people in attendance and people who are older and stereotypically less understanding are here too.
“The event is for everyone.”
Basildon Pride organiser Matt Miller says the event has now become a staple in the town.
He said: “I think due to the age of the festival and the word of mouth spread, we are getting more families involved and different generations.
“It has become a staple in the towns event calendar.
“It has become a highlight for the local community and we are seeing a lot of different faces which is brilliant.
“It means we are engaging with more communities and more people. It was so good to see everyone enjoying themselves.”
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