Flying the Flag - even in the rain

It was a rather soggy Oxford Pride this year — but no amount of drizzle could dampen the spirit of the day. From the moment we stepped off from the top of Paradise Street, the sense of joy, solidarity, and celebration was unmistakable. I was proud to walk alongside colleagues from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Thames Valley Police, and Oxfordshire County Council — all visibly showing their support for LGBTQI+ communities across the county.

I was especially pleased to be walking with Mark, Chair of the County Council, and Martin, the Council’s Chief Executive. The three of us formed a small, but symbolically significant, civic presence. More than once along the route, I was stopped by members of the public who simply wanted to say how glad they were to see the High Sheriff and other senior civic leaders in the parade — not just attending from the sidelines, but walking alongside everyone else. It meant a great deal to them. And it meant a great deal to me too.

This year, Oxford Pride made the decision — in line with similar moves in London, Brighton, Manchester, and Birmingham — to ask political parties not to parade. It was a decision taken carefully and in full recognition of the current tensions and debates around equality, identity, and inclusion. By choosing to centre the voices of community and civic life rather than political platforms, Oxford Pride offered something honest, thoughtful, and profoundly welcoming.

Of course, the rain didn’t let up — but nor did the enthusiasm. Everywhere I looked, I saw umbrellas held high and rainbow flags waved even higher. Stewards and volunteers kept things moving with warmth and good humour, and the crowds that lined the route radiated kindness and joy.

Earlier this week, I wrote about why Pride still matters — not just as a party, but as a protest. That message felt especially resonant on Saturday. If you haven’t yet read it, you can find the piece here:
👉 Why Pride Still Matters – as Protest, Not Just Party

For me, being part of the Pride parade wasn’t about making a grand statement. It was about showing up — quietly but clearly — to say that LGBTQI+ people matter, that inclusion matters, and that visibility still matters.

It was, truly, a privilege to be part of it. And the ice lolly at the end, courtesy of Hertford College, was pretty brilliant too.

Photos courtesy of Anne Gow and Mark Johnson