THE Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Elisha McCallion, has called on people across Derry and Strabane to support the district’s growing annual celebration of diversity and inclusivity, the Foyle Pride Festival.
Speaking ahead of a special reception taking place in the Guildhall on Monday evening, Mayor McCallion praised the organisors of this year’s event for putting together a colourful week-long programme of cultural events open to all.
“I’m delighted to be joining the members of Foyle Pride in promoting what has become such an important highlight in our local cultural calendar,” she declared.
“The Foyle Pride Festival celebrates diversity and promotes acceptance of all people regardless of gender, background or sexual orientation, playing a key role in raising awareness about a whole host of social issues.
“The festival provides a valuable platform for freedom of expression, and promises to be a fun week of colour, culture and entertainment for all.”
The Foyle Pride Programme opened on Saturday August 22, featuring a wide array of cultural events, touching on everything from political discussions and creative workshops, to family fun events.
Some of the main highlights of the week include a Creativity and Activism Workshop taking place in the Void Gallery on Thursday August 27, a Football vs Homophobia event at the Old Library Trust on Friday at 1.30pm, a fascinating talk in the Tower Museum by local historian Brian Lacey focusing on homosexuality in Irish history on Wednesday at 7.30pm, and a Family Picnic on Sunday 2pm – 4pm in St Columb’s Park, during the Carnival of Colours.
As always the real highlight event will be Saturday’s Foyle Pride Parade which leaves the Waterside Railway Station at 2pm, heading towards the Guildhall.
For more information on all the events taking place at the Foyle Pride Festival check out the full programme at www.foylepridefestival.com
Tags: