On June 20th, ROTA attended the UK Black Pride Inaugural Community Roundtable discussion on strategic community building funding and collective resilience, hosted by UK Black Pride at the BCS Chartered Institute for IT in Moorgate.
This groundbreaking event served as a brave space for meaningful discussions on the necessity of community-driven initiatives, emphasising the importance of spaces created by and for the Black and Global Majority LGBTQI+ community.
The meeting featured legendary activists who shared their experiences and ongoing efforts to ensure that racial equity for Black and Global Majority LGBTQ+ individuals remains a priority. Among the highlights was the presentation by Pride in Education, an organisation dedicated to enhancing BGM LGBTQI+ visibility within the education sector. Operated entirely by volunteers, Pride in Education produces free resources designed to foster inclusion and celebration across all educational contexts. Pride in Education
One of the notable speakers was Jason Jones, a renowned British-Trinidadian LGBTQIA rights activist. He discussed his persistent legal challenge against outdated colonial anti-gay laws. In April 2018, Jason successfully overturned these laws in Trinidad and Tobago, with the court ruling that they violated the constitutional rights of LGBTQ+ citizens. Although the ruling was later overturned by the Nation’s Court of Appeal, Jason is appealing to the Privy Council in London. This move could potentially decriminalize millions across the Commonwealth. His appeal is expected to be heard next year. https://youtu.be/9fp8h9haFt8ps://youtu.be/9fp8h9haFt8
Additionally, Ted Brown, a veteran of the Gay Liberation Front with over 50 years of advocacy experience, addressed the ongoing need for accommodation and care homes for older LGBTQI+ individuals. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=ted+brown+gay
Olivia Campbell-Cavendish, Founder and Executive Director of the Trans Legal Helpline, shared insights on the impact of the recent Supreme Court decision in April 2025, which affects BGM trans, non-binary, and intersex individuals daily. Home | Trans Legal Clinic
In recognition of Refugee Week, host Aisha Shaibu Lenoir expressed gratitude towards Micro Rainbow, a grassroots organisation that supports Black and Global Majority LGBTQI+ individuals seeking refuge in the UK. Micro Rainbow provides safe housing, advocacy, and guidance to help navigate the asylum process, ensuring equal opportunities in employment, training, financial services, and housing. Micro Rainbow – Changing people’s lives, one at a time
The Roundtable was a vital gathering for Back and Global Majority activists and grassroots organisations, fostering discussions on strategic community building and collective resilience. The 20-year history of UK Black Pride stands as a testament to the strength and determination of the Back and Global Majority LGBTQI+ community, illustrating how collective resilience and resistance have allowed this significant celebration to thrive.
Mark your calendars for this year’s UK Black Pride, taking place on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the Olympic Park in Stratford. This free event is open to all and promises to be a vibrant celebration of Back and Global Majority LGBTQI+ collective resistance, liberation, joy, and fabulousness! UK Black Pride
The co-founder of UK Black Pride, Lady Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, shares in this interview the importance of Black Pride: Bing Videos
This gathering is not only a celebration but also a continuation of the global fight for the rights of the Back and Global Majority LGBTQI+ community.