A warm welcome greets LGBT+ Ukrainians at Pride march in the U.K.
Queer Ukrainians take part in Liverpool march in support of war-torn Kyiv.
Sky News reports that hundreds of queer Ukrainians participated in a Pride March in Liverpool, UK, which was held on behalf of the war-torn country’s capital city Kyiv last weekend. The march built on ties between the two cities that have developed over the course of war, and gave queer Ukrainian refugees in the UK an opportunity to show their Pride in their country and their sexuality. The original report is reproduced below. For more photos, visit Sky News.
Saturday’s Pride event further strengthened the ties between Liverpool and Ukraine, with the city having hosted Eurovision on the war-torn country’s behalf back in May.
Hundreds of LGBT+ Ukrainians took to the streets of Liverpool, UK on July 29 as the city hosted Pride on behalf of their country’s capital, Kyiv.
The blue and yellow flag of the war-torn nation appeared just as prominently as the bright multicoloured banners traditionally seen at the event, as attendees embarked on a “march for freedom” to show their support.
KyivPride spokesperson Edward Reese was among those who travelled to take part, saying the cities enjoyed an “amazing friendship” after Liverpool hosted Eurovision on Ukraine’s behalf earlier this year.
“We are marching together for Ukraine, for freedom, to remind the world and the UK the war is not over,” he said.
“Liverpool is a very welcoming and friendly and warm city, so we are happy that we are here.”
Alongside the main march, the city organised street parties, community performances, family-friendly spaces, and a garden party at Liverpool Parish Church.
There was also a pop-up LGBT+ safe space, which initially launched during Eurovision back in May.
Andi Herring, chief executive of Liverpool City Region Pride Foundation, said it was an honour to host the event.
The city shares a “lasting bond with Ukraine that will remain with us,” she added.
