In a bold and unprecedented move, the organisers of four of the UK’s largest Pride events — in London, Manchester, Brighton and Birmingham — have announced that political parties will not be welcome to participate in their 2025 parades.
The ban, made public on 12 May, is a direct response to what organisers describe as a “betrayal” of the trans community in the wake of recent legal developments.
The decision follows the UK Supreme Court’s controversial ruling that “sex” in the Equality Act must be understood to mean biological sex — a move campaigners warn could undermine years of progress in trans rights and access to single-sex spaces. Pride organisers say this legal shift, coupled with continued government delays in banning conversion therapy and worsening trans healthcare access, signals a broader retreat from LGBTQ+ equality.
A joint statement issued by the Pride collectives said:
“This is not about rejecting politics — Pride has always been political. But we cannot in good faith offer a platform to parties whose policies, inaction or silence are contributing to real harm for our communities. Until meaningful commitments to trans rights and LGBTQ+ equality are made, political parties will not be welcome in our parades.”
The announcement has sparked intense public debate. Supporters see it as a necessary stand in defence of marginalised groups, particularly trans people, who have faced increasing hostility in media and political discourse. Critics, however, argue that banning parties risks isolating potential allies and depoliticising the very institutions Pride aims to challenge.
For many within the LGBTQ+ community, the move represents a turning point — a demand for accountability rather than symbolic gestures. “Pride is not a photo opportunity,” said Juno Reid, a spokesperson for Trans Safety Now. “Politicians marching with us one day and voting against our rights the next is not solidarity — it’s hypocrisy.”
The ban applies to all political parties, regardless of affiliation, and extends to elected officials attending in an official party capacity. Organisers have clarified that individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and hold political office are welcome to attend as private citizens, but will not be permitted to appear on behalf of their parties or distribute campaign material.
This announcement also comes amid wider concerns about the UK’s standing on LGBTQ+ rights. Earlier this month, ILGA-Europe ranked the UK 22nd on its Rainbow Map — its lowest ever position. Many have interpreted the ban on political parties as part of a growing frustration with what some call “performative allyship” by public institutions.
Employers and organisations participating in Pride season may also be taking note. In recent years, there has been increasing scrutiny of corporate involvement in Pride events, with questions raised about how meaningful and year-round their support truly is. The move by Pride organisers could prompt companies to reflect more deeply on the values they align with and how they engage with social justice movements.
Despite the ban, Pride 2025 is expected to draw record crowds and will feature a stronger focus on grassroots activism, community-led programming, and solidarity with international LGBTQ+ struggles. Organisers say the events will remain inclusive, celebratory, and focused on visibility — but with renewed emphasis on justice, protest and pride with purpose.