‘Our love letter to the city’: Hull Pride 2023 – thousands attend day of protest and celebration

EYE-CATCHING: A group in stilts in Pride colours making their way to the start of today’s parade

By Simon Bristow

The 22nd Hull Pride parade got under way in bright sunshine today, as thousands of people turned the city centre into a flash of colour.

Setting off from Wellington Street on Hull Marina because of renovation work at the traditional starting point of Queens Gardens, the parade made its proud and noisy progression along Humber Street and into the Old Town and city centre, where it was due to end at King Edward Street about 90 minutes later.

Lining the route were thousands more well-wishers, waving flags, cheering, and many donning pride colours.

Stalls selling food and refreshments and memorabilia had been set up in Princes Dock Street, close to Zebedee’s Yard where the main stage was for events that will last long into the night.

Acts due to perform include disco legends Boney M, and Ongina – the hugely popular drag performer returning after a stunning appearance last year.

Chart-topper Tinchy Stryder is also on the bill, while there are also tribute acts to Dolly Parton and Madonna.

Elsewhere, Monroe’s Bar is hosting K.E.N. – Kinky Erotic Nature, billed as “the sexy side of Pride” – while other attractions include a Queer Joy Area in Princes Quay; a family area in Queen Victoria Square; games and entertainment in Ferens Art Gallery; and Autistic Pride at Pride – a chilled-out Pride event stream at Hull Truck Theatre.

Andy Train, vice-chair of Hull Pride and parade director, has been to all 22 Hull Prides and helped organise 21 of them. He said today’s event was part protest, part celebration, and was designed to be as inclusive as ever.

He told The Hull Story: “I think it’s more important than ever, particularly now as far as gender identity is concerned because our trans community have got a real struggle because the Government has reneged on their promises on gender recognition. Plus conversion therapy should be completely banned.”

“It’s a celebration and it’s a protest, but it’s our love letter to the city saying the LGBTQIA+ is here – come and join us because everybody’s welcome.”