Train stations inspiring passengers ahead of Brighton Pride
GTR has teamed up with creatives from the LGBTQ+ community to share what Pride means to them
Ahead of this year’s Brighton Pride, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has unveiled thought-provoking ‘Words of Pride’ at busy train stations.
GTR has teamed up with writers, performers and artists from the LGBTQ+ community to share what Pride means to them.
The UK’s largest Pride event is just over a week away and to celebrate, GTR - which runs train services in and out of Brighton - has unveiled the special words at stations for people to enjoy as they travel to the city.
The 'Words of Pride’ are now on display at London Blackfriars, East Croydon, Gatwick Airport and Brighton train stations until Monday 5 August.
The quotes to look out for are:
‘Pride is a moment to celebrate the joy, love and culture of queer life whilst reminding people of the things we’re still fighting for.’ - Gemma Rolls-Bentley (she/her), curator and author of Queer Art.
‘Pride reminds us we aren’t alone. We are part of something strong, beautiful and enduring.’ - Charlie Wood (she/they), artist, performer and writer.
‘I live a pretty bold and unapologetic life all year - but Pride is my way of proclaiming to the world, ‘we deserve equality and to take up space.’ - Livia Kojo Alour (she/her), Nigerian German-born poet, writer and musician.
In addition to quotes at train stations, GTR is also utilising its Thameslink ‘Trainbow’, which was originally launched in 2019.
Chris Fowler, Head of Network Operations at Govia Thameslink Railway, comments: “Brighton Pride is the biggest event on our network, and the atmosphere it creates in the city each year is fantastic.
"With so many people making the journey from London down to Brighton, showcasing voices from the LGBTQ+ community to a wider audience will help educate and raise awareness of the reasons why Pride exists. We hope people enjoy reading Words of Pride on their journeys and have a fabulous time at the event.”
Paul Kemp, Managing Director of Brighton & Hove Pride, said: “We welcome the news of strengthened train services and the resilience planning. We are grateful to the whole team and all GTR staff for committing time and effort to plan the best possible services over this summer’s Pride weekend.
"Train services into our city are essential for tourism all year round, as well as for the future success of Pride. We are excited to work more collaboratively with GTR and this year is shaping up to be one of the best for Pride in the city.”