As the countdown continues to this summer's Brighton & Hove Pride, I am in the process of looking at the recent history of the festival and writing a blog post that tackles the controversial decision to charge for entrance to the Preston Park party for the first time.
Due to the substantial amount of visitors from London and the South-East on the day, this is one of the crucial community events of the year for the city and a massive boost to the local tourist trade. Considering the scale of this shake-up to the format, all eyes are on the organisers to ensure that Brighton & Hove Pride does not experience any permanent reputational risk. In the current financial climate, a successful Pride Festival is essential for the continued viability of many LGBT community groups in the city.
I am keen to hear from anyone who has strong views on either side of this debate. For those with any intelligence on both the background history and the current state of play, I'd be keen to hear from you. Naturally, anything said confidentially will be respected and non-attributed. My aim is to constructively report on this controversial issue and the final article will endeavour to strike a balance between all views expressed.
Feel free to email me directly at stephen_a_wood@yahoo.co.uk
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If those that attend don't pay - then who should?
ReplyDeleteIt costs at least £300K to put on a party for one afternoon. Asking people for donations has not worked, hence the shortfall for the past two years.
Sponsorship has become difficult as corporate budgets are reviewed. The business community used to donate in excess of £30K and organise various activities such as Dance Tent, Caberet Tent etc. Also site security as well as the all important clear up.
Two years ago Pride rejected a no loose bid from the community and appointed non LGBT contractors.
I hear what you say - it's not a cheap endeavour to do on a shoe-string! Could you explain more about your last comment, when you mentioned the no-lose community bid lost to a non-LGBT contractors?
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