Pride
Published: 28 July 2008
Report by Vic Thomas, Association of Nursing Students Executive Committee, East Midlands region
After a rainy windy start to London Pride on the 05 July 2008, a group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) health professionals were pleasantly surprised when the sun burst out of the clouds just after the arrival of RCN Congress Chair Jason Warriner. I think the lesson to learn here is if you want to get some vitamin D at Harrogate next year stand near Jason!
The Department of Health had laid on an even better float this year and we all mucked into have an amazing day. One of our student members from London was a late addition to the float but seemed to have a great day.
We received a phenomenal reception from the crowds all the way along the route, and I have to say this must have been down to the superior grooves of the RCN members on the float. A particular highlight was Sir Ian McKellan reaching up from the crowd to shake my hand.
So with all that postivity in mind, I headed off to my local Pride in Nottingham on 26 July. The local branch had laid on a great stall and folk were genuinely keen to say hi and ask for professional and diversity advice. It was blisteringly hot and none of our branch staff wilted or flagged as they chatted and welcomed everyone to the stall. Another success.
If you would like to get involved with supporting a great LGBT event this summer why not get in touch with the North West office and get along to Manchester Mardis Gras on 23 August? It is a fun way to get involved with all the great work done by the RCN and I'm sure they'd appreciate some students to keep the energy going on the float.
If you have any LGBT events that you think the ANS should support lets us know and have a great rest of the summer.