Greater Manchester Universities Unite at Manchester Pride Parade

Staff and students from universities across Greater Manchester took part in a joint entry in this weekend’s Manchester Pride Parade. Marching through a rain-soaked city centre, they joined thousands in celebrating and supporting LGBTQ+ communities.

The combined float and walking group brought together LGBTQ+ staff networks and supporters from the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Salford, the University of Law, and Arden University.

This year’s parade theme was No Place Like Home, and the joint entry, made possible by close collaboration between the LGBTQ+ staff networks across the participating universities, celebrated the many ways LGBTQ+ people have found belonging, community and solidarity through history and across the city-region.

The Manchester weather did little to dampen the atmosphere, with staff, students, families, friends and allies making their way through the city centre together. The joint entry was made possible by close collaboration between the LGBTQ+ staff networks across the participating universities, providing an opportunity for colleagues and students from different institutions to come together and show their support.

The day reflected the wider spirit of civic collaboration across Greater Manchester’s universities. Through the Greater Manchester Civic University Agreement, the region’s universities are working together to strengthen their contribution to the city-region and the communities they serve. Creating inclusive environments where students and staff from all backgrounds can learn, work, develop and flourish is an important part of that shared commitment.

Among those marching was Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester, who joined colleagues and students on the route. He said:

“It was a real privilege to march alongside colleagues and students from across Greater Manchester's universities in celebration of our LGBTQ+ communities. Pride is an opportunity not only to celebrate diversity, but also to reaffirm our shared commitment to creating universities where everyone feels welcome, respected and able to thrive. Despite the rain, the sense of community and solidarity on display throughout the day was remarkable, and a powerful reflection of the values we share across our institutions.”

The success of the joint entry serves as a powerful reminder of the impact these institutions have when they act together. By continuously championing inclusivity, Greater Manchester's universities remain dedicated to driving positive change for all who live, learn and work in the city-region.