PRIDE

Every June, rainbow flags fill our streets, social media feeds, and shop windows. But Pride is far more than a colourful celebration. It's a movement, a protest, a tribute, and—above all—a message: you are valid, you are loved, and you deserve to be safe and seen.

🌈 What is Pride?

Pride is both a commemoration and a celebration of the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and others) community. It honours the ongoing fight for equality, visibility, and safety for LGBTQ+ people around the world.

The first Pride events were inspired by the Stonewall Uprising in New York City in June 1969—an act of resistance against police brutality and oppression in LGBTQ+ spaces. That moment sparked a global movement that continues today, demanding rights, recognition, and respect.

🏳️‍🌈 How Long Has Pride Been Going?

The first official Pride marches took place in 1970, marking one year since the Stonewall riots. Over the decades, what began as a series of defiant protests has grown into a worldwide movement—spanning parades, educational campaigns, memorials, and political activism.

📊 Some Quick Stats

In 2023, over 500 Pride events took place in the UK alone.

Around 7.6% of UK adults aged 16-24 now identify as LGB+ (ONS, 2022).

LGBTQ+ youth are still at a higher risk of experiencing mental health issues, homelessness, and discrimination—highlighting why Pride is still so essential.

🏒 Pride in Ice Hockey

Historically, ice hockey hasn’t always been the most inclusive sport. But that’s changing.

Across the globe, initiatives like the NHL’s “Hockey is for Everyone” campaign and the UK’s "You Can Play" movement have been working to build inclusive, safe spaces for LGBTQ+ players and fans. Many pro teams now host Pride Nights, wear rainbow tape, and fundraise for LGBTQ+ charities.

But allyship in sport is about more than a one-night event—it’s about building inclusive locker rooms, fanbases, and communities year-round.

🖤❤️🤍 Reapers: Allies Always

At Chester Road Reapers, we don’t just show up in June—we stand with the LGBTQ+ community every single day.

Our ethos is simple: If you love the game, you're one of us.

We celebrate diversity, champion inclusivity, and proudly support our LGBTQ+ teammates, fans, and friends.

Whether it’s through supporting inclusive charities, challenging discrimination, or simply creating a safe space to play—we’re proud to say we’re Pride allies. Not for a month. For good.

🏳️‍🌈 Pride is protest. Pride is joy. Pride is community.

And at Chester Road Reapers, Pride is permanent.