The first openly lesbian MP and former Government minister
Angela Eagle has become the first patron of Liverpool Pride. Angela
is the shadow leader of the House of Commons and has been Labour's
MP for Wallasey since 1992. She will lead the Pride parade, which
takes place on 4 August, and will also give a short speech at its
starting point on William Brown Street.
Angela Eagle was delighted to be offered the role: "It was a real
honour to be asked by Liverpool Pride to be their first patron. I'm
from the area and my constituency is just across the river from
Liverpool so I didn't hesitate when I was asked.
"But more importantly, Liverpool Pride is doing so much to support
the LGBT community across Merseyside and I look forward to
supporting them with this important work.
"The festival is continuing to grow and it is not just the gay
community who have embraced it. People and families from across the
UK attend - making Liverpool Pride one of the biggest free events
in the country.
"Liverpool has dramatically changed in recent years - there is so
much to see and do and it continues to be as diverse and welcoming
as ever. I'd encourage all DIVA readers to visit Liverpool this
weekend and experience Pride in all of its glory."
Liverpool Pride 2012 is the city's third annual Pride event,
taking place throughout Liverpool's Stanley Street Gay Quarter and
the pier-head. There will also be a weekend of cultural events
taking place at some of Liverpool's most influential arts and
culture venues.
The festival takes place every year to coincide with the
anniversary of murdered gay teenager Michael Causer, following a
number of high profile attacks in the area.
The theme for this year is 'Nautical but Nice,' chosen in a ballot
by 700 members of the local LGBT community. It aims to recognise
the 100-year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic whilst
celebrating the city's maritime history.
Pride Weekend starts 4 August.
Make sure you check out liverpoolpride.co.uk,
follow @LiverpoolPride on Twitter and search Liverpool Pride on
Facebook to have your say and for all of the latest pride
news.
