Governments and fringe groups around the world continue to dictate how the LGBTQ+ community should live – and who they should love. Yet, despite the obstacles, the global community continues to fight and, where possible, thrive in technicolour glory. The Stonewall Riots of 1969 inspired Queer folk well beyond New York City, and the first iteration of Pride in London followed in 1972; today, it’s a kaleidoscopic celebration that draws hundreds of thousands of allies to the capital. Elsewhere, as Dan Allen notes in his article, things are progressing with caution, as he experienced on a Delhi Pride march that saw participants masked to protect their identities. Here, we share tales of LGBTQ+ struggles, from Dan’s tales of Pride events around the world to Robbie Hodge’s revelation that “the shadow of his failed ‘lads holiday’ still haunts him”, to touching tales of long-desired acceptance, which Gary Nunn found after visiting some of the world’s largest and smallest Prides. Finally, there are our all-important guides on joining in, whether you’re a part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally keen to show your support, from our Pride in London guide to a list of the most colourful celebrations across the UK this summer.
