IT’S AN honour – that’s the verdict of Wokingham Borough’s council leader over raising the rainbow flag in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
Earlier today – Friday, August 30 – Cllr Bill Soane hoisted the flag in support of the Pride event taking place in Reading this weekend.
The Pride flag will also fly from Wokingham Town Council, while a number of shops and businesses have rainbows in their windows to show their backing for the initiative, which this year celebrates its 16th anniversary.
And there is even talk of launching a Wokingham Pride next year.
Wokingham Borough Mayor, Cllr Bill Soane, said: “It has been encouraging to hear that there are plans for Wokingham town to start its own Pride from next year. This is something I fully support, as the campaign for equality continues.”
Cllr John Halsall, who leads the council, said: “We are honoured to fly the flag in support of Pride. It sends an important message to residents across the borough that we proudly support equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community.
“We are proud to show our support for Pride, this annual celebration rallies against discrimination and celebrates diversity across our communities.”
Broad Street Mall in Reading will be the official starting point for Reading Pride tomorrow.
Registration desks will be set up in the shopping mall from 10.30am for the parade, which will form up from 10.55am. It then leaves the centre at around 11.15am.
The theme of this year’s Pride is Love Unites and organisers say the parade provides an opportunity for groups, organisations and individuals to show their support for both Pride and the ongoing campaign for equality.
The colourful parade will head down Broad Street and make its way to Kings Meadow for the Pride event.
Nicola Williamson, centre manager at Broad St Mall says, “We have long been at the heart of the Reading community, so we are thrilled to be hosting the start of this years’ official Pride parade.
“It’s sure to be a fantastic celebration that the whole community can enjoy, so come down and join the fun.”
