York Pride Saturday 1st June 2024
North Yorkshire's biggest LGBT+ celebration
The sun shone; thousands turned out; entertainment, dress codes and stalls were varied. A lovely sense of freedom and happiness prevailed.
And the York for Europe stall was no exception. We had a continuous stream of visitors - lots of friendship, encouragement; joy that we still existed. And much stronger than we have witnessed before: - real anger with political parties, their disinterest in Europe and the loss of freedoms caused by Brexit.
We also had a steady trickle of foreign nationals checking in; the young woman on the stall next to us had benefitted from the Erasmus scheme. Remember that freedom? Yes, we gave out scores of leaflets reminding us of Erasmus and the spiteful way it was dumped.
Our Brexitometer was also very popular - we ran out of coloured stickers and room on the board. We had only one visitor who said he voted Brexit; he then added that he now regretted doing so. No angry exchanges; no pointed fingers explaining "what you don't understand..." It seems nearly everybody does now understand.
It was a long day for us - we had to set up by 09.30 and not take away until 18.30. But we had a small team of helpers who all seemed to arrive at the right times - engaging visitors in conversation, giving away and explaining our leaflets, encouraging new members, and admiring the kaleidoscope of costumes.
Helpers also joined us from Leeds and North Yorkshire "for Europe" teams. It was great to catch up and share what was a splendid event.
Our thanks to all new and old friends we met at the York Pride event. Join us at our next campaign ~ details as ever on our website. here
