Stop asking whether Pride is a protest or a party, say Surrey researchers

The long-running argument about whether Pride has become too commercial, too political or not political enough misses a crucial point, according to Surrey researchers.

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Research examining Pride events across the UK has found that modern Pride celebrations have evolved into year-round community hubs that act simultaneously as protests, safe spaces and cultural festivals for local LGBTQIA+ communities.

To understand how Pride has evolved, researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 20 Pride organisers from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The team analysed organisers' experiences and perspectives to identify the key forces shaping modern Pride events.

The findings, published in Event Management, suggest that attempts to define Pride as either a protest or a celebration fail to reflect how organisers themselves view the events. Instead, Pride has adapted to local needs, helping communities tackle issues ranging from discrimination and isolation to homelessness and access to health services.

Researchers found that Pride events have become deeply embedded within local communities. Many organisers now work closely with councils, public services, businesses and charities throughout the year, extending their role far beyond a single annual event.

At the same time, organisers continue to see activism as central to Pride's purpose. Many described growing concerns about rising hate crime, negative public discourse around LGBTQIA+ issues and the need to create safe spaces where people can be themselves.

Dr James Kennell, co-author of the study and Associate Professor of Events at the University of Surrey, said:

“People often talk about Pride as if it has to be one thing or another. Our research shows that reality is far more complicated. Pride can be a protest, a celebration, a support network and a platform for change all at the same time. Trying to force it into a single category ignores the needs of the communities it serves.”

The research identified five key themes shaping Pride events today: increasing organisational professionalism, relationships with local communities and stakeholders, strong local identities, ongoing debates around representation and inclusion, and the changing nature of LGBTQIA+ activism.

Organisers also highlighted tensions around sponsorship, commercialisation and representation. While corporate funding often helps events survive financially, many Pride organisations are working to ensure they remain rooted in local communities and responsive to a wider range of LGBTQIA+ voices.

The study found that many Pride organisers are actively trying to make events more inclusive, particularly for trans people, ethnic minority communities, disabled people and others whose experiences have historically been underrepresented.

Dr James Kennell continued:

“Pride is not just something that happens for one weekend a year. Many organisers are working every day to support their communities, build partnerships and create spaces where people feel safe, visible and valued. Understanding that wider role helps explain why Pride remains such an important part of contemporary society.”

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