Pride in London returned to the capital on 4 July, transforming central London into a sea of rainbow flags in celebration of LGBTQIA+ rights.
Organisers estimated that more than one million people attended.
With significant progress made in equality and large attendance estimates, the SW Londoner asked those taking part why Pride still matters.
One attendee said: “It’s still such a protest, talking about all the important things that are still going on here in the UK and all around the world.”
One of the most pressing issues brought up among attendees was transgender rights for the community in 2026.
Carter and Harriet, undergoing hormone replacement therapy, spoke about the barriers to accessing gender-affirming healthcare in the UK through the NHS and raised concerns about the corporatisation of the event, which dissuades them from participating.
Harriet said: “These things at Pride are amazing.
“I’m so happy to celebrate our presence and how far we’ve come – but we still have a very long way to go.”
NHS England was contacted for comment.
Watch the full video below.
Featured image credit: Charles Gagan
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