Knowsley Pride announces programme for inaugural pride event

Knowsley Pride has announced a raft of well-known LGBTQ+ performers and personalities for its first-ever outing this summer.

Spearheaded by charitable organisation, One Knowsley, in collaboration with the newly formed Knowsley Pride Steering Group and with funding from The Michael Causer Foundation, Knowsley Pride will take place on Friday 2 August, 2024 and provide a day of celebration and awareness for residents, families, local organisations and the LGBTQ+ community to come together and enjoy.

Knowsley Pride will offer a variety of performances and activities for all ages with well-known Liverpool drag artist, Filla confirmed as the event’s host.

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK alumni, Sister Sister, will captivate audiences with engaging storytelling sessions, while the House of Suarez will deliver dazzling dance workshops and performances to build excitement for its annual Vogue Ball later in the year.

Local artist Sophie Green, known for her colourful, Liverpool-themed creations, will conduct interactive art workshops and a silent rave for children has been produced by one of the recipients of Knowsley Pride’s small grants programme.

The date of Knowsley Pride also marks the anniversary of the death of Michael Causer, an openly gay teenager who was murdered in 2008 and whose death inspired Liverpool Pride to return in 2010 after a fifteen-year hiatus.

To acknowledge Michael’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community, Knowsley Pride will conclude with the 16th annual vigil for the Whiston-born teen, which is open to the community to attend.

Racheal Jones, CEO of One Knowsley, expressed her excitement about the day:

“We are looking forward to the inaugural Knowsley Pride, which promises to be an event for all the family to celebrate acceptance for all, regardless of age, sexuality or ethnicity, and will be an important step in bringing the Knowsley community together.

“We are also committed to ensuring the memory and legacy of Michael Causer continues with the annual vigil in his name, promoting inclusivity and equality across the borough in a collective mission against hate.”

Host for the day, Filla, shared the importance of bringing Pride into the community:

“As a ‘Kirkby girl’ myself, having a local Pride event like this is incredibly important.
“For many in the local LGBTQ+ community, the only options to socialise or celebrate involve travelling into city centres, but Knowsley Pride brings the festivities into the heart of our borough.

“I can’t wait to be your host, guiding you through the day and welcoming a fantastic lineup of music, performances and activities specially tailored for Knowsley Pride.”

Drag artist, and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK alumni, Sister Sister, spoke of her involvement:

“It’s important to remember why Pride exists, and why it is important; we come together to celebrate our community’s history and achievements, but also to acknowledge our fight for equality.

“The first Knowsley Pride is taking place on the anniversary of the tragic murder of a young gay man, Michael Causer, which only amplifies this message, and I am proud to be a part of it, bringing queer joy and reading for the children’s story hour.”

Leader of Knowsley Council, Cllr Graham Morgan, said:

“I am thrilled that the first ever Knowsley Pride celebration will launch this summer. This will incorporate a week of community activities, culminating in the event at Court Hey Park on 2 August.

“The events will be inclusive to people of all ages and involve a range of organisations in celebrating the life of Michael Causer and showing the support we have in the borough for the LGBQT+ community.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to promote the message of inclusivity in Knowsley as part of a wonderful celebration.”

Knowsley Pride takes place from 10am – 3pm on Friday 2 August 2024 at Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton, followed by the Michael Causer Vigil at 6pm.