(Thankyou again Weymouth Gay Group for the picture!)
On Saturday, June 10th, SYP's dedicated youth workers, Mel, Charity, and Jane, accompanied by Supernova Zoey, had the privilege of attending Dorset Youth Pride at the esteemed Shire Hall museum. This remarkable event served as a celebration of LGBTQ+ culture in Dorset, uniting various charitable organisations and young individuals. The Shire Hall, once Dorset's courthouse from 1797 to 1955, holds a rich historical significance. It witnessed numerous landmark trials, including those of the Tolpuddle Martyrs and the infamous 1856 domestic abuse case depicted in Thomas Hardy's renowned novel, 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles'.
Launched in 2021, this event has been committed to creating an inclusive space for LGBTQ+ community members, families, young individuals, and allies alike. Among the many charitable organisations present, Space Youth Project proudly hosted a stall to raise funds for our cause and raise awareness among the event attendees.
Towards midday, the Shire Hall opened its doors to welcome visitors into the old courtroom. Here, they had the privilege of listening to the profoundly moving experiences of four remarkable individuals from the LGBTQ+ community, each representing different ages and backgrounds. This captivating session left an indelible mark, inspiring all those fortunate enough to witness it.
Overall, our participation in Dorset Youth Pride was a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ youth. It was an honour to be part of an event that not only celebrated diversity but also fostered a sense of unity and understanding among all attendees.
Written by SYP Supernova, Zoe