Some famous faces have already signed up to take part in this first for the UK. Silver Pride celebrates older people in the LGBT+ community and helps counter loneliness and isolation.
Silver Pride is a virtual event, which will take place on 25 and 26 July and include mental health masterclasses, live DJ sets, choral performances, musicians, dancers and storytellers, and drag make-up classes. Christopher Biggins will join in the fun.
Friends of Dorothy, who have organised the event, will use the funds raised to provide lifelines for the older LGBT+ community in both Leeds and Manchester. Craig Burton, Founder of Friends of Dorothy, said:
“Older LGBT+ people are twice as likely to be living alone, and six times more likely to suffer from mental health issues, often related to loneliness and isolation. We strongly believe inter-generational friendships and events like Silver Pride are vital to help tackle these problems.
Lockdown has exacerbated the issues of isolation and loneliness, but we’re determined to make sure the older generations have a reason to celebrate and socialise online.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first ever Pride march in the USA, and it’s important we remember the sacrifices the older LGBT+ community made for us. They took to the streets to campaign and fight for our rights, and paved the way to enjoy life as we do today. Hosting an online celebration for them is the least we can do.
Silver Pride is all about championing inclusion, and celebrating and connecting with our older communities. It will be a celebration of LGBT history, our freedom of expression and recognition of the battles the older community faced for us – and the battles they continue to face.”
Performers who wish to be involved and share their talent are very welcome to contact Silver Pride.
Craig added: “Whether it’s theatre, literature, live music, comedy, dance, wellbeing classes, or simply sharing your life stories, we’d love to hear from anyone who’s keen to get involved.”
Tickets will be available from silverpride.org.uk from Monday July 6th.
For details, or to get in touch about performing, visit silverpride.org.uk.
Photograph shows Friends of Dorothy Founder Craig Burton.
