When thinking of Pride, what comes to mind? Colour, sparkle, music, smiles, hugs, and love. LDC Care, a provider of support for adults with learning disabilities, hosted a Pride event on 20th June that featured all this and more.
It’s disheartening that people often feel worried about expressing who they are. Sending a positive message to the LGBTQ+ community is crucial, and what better way to do it than with a party? LDC transformed their offices and car park into a Pride extravaganza. The event kicked off with food and drink, essential for any celebration. Streetz 2 Streetz joined in the spirit with their food truck, evidenced by the long queues lining up for their delicious offerings. Inside, guests enjoyed cake, sweets, and a bit of fizz to boost the party atmosphere.
Glow and Go added to the sparkle with their glitter body art, enhanced by the afternoon sunshine. Despite the glitter taking days to wash off and lingering in the office for months, it was undoubtedly worth it. Balloons were everywhere, and an amazing balloon artist created all sorts of balloon animals and love hearts.
The dance floor was buzzing with the DJ playing everything from LGBTQ+ anthems to Afrobeats. Everyone, from the director and management team to the HR staff and maintenance crew, took a turn on the floor. There were bubble machines, wigs, and plenty of hugs and laughter.
The highlight was a performance by local drag queen Dita Garbo, who wowed everyone with her handmade costumes, huge wig, and lip-syncing, including splits. Attendees loved meeting Dita and watching her perform. She happily posed for photos, inspiring some to dress in drag themselves. One young man tried high heels for the first time with his stunning dress, though he quickly reverted to his boots, his confidence and smile a joy to behold. Another person dressed as Dolly Parton and convinced her manager to join her in a lively lip-sync performance of “9 to 5,” much to the crowd’s delight.
A board was available for people to write notes about what Pride meant to them. Comments included, “Be free to love who you want” and “It lets me be who I want to be.” Some supported individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ expressed how overwhelmed and happy they were with the acceptance and love they felt from everyone.
The event was a huge success. One visiting professional remarked, “This isn’t a party; it is a festival.” LDC is proud to have hosted such a positive and fun afternoon. Often, people with care needs are expected to hide parts of themselves to fit in, especially those who identify as LGBTQ+. LDC aims to be a safe place where everyone can be their whole selves and feel supported and loved for who they are.
In case you were wondering, plans are already underway for next year’s event, with aspirations to make it bigger, brighter, and more epic than ever. Maybe LDC can inspire you to do the same?
@LDCCareCo
ldccare.co.uk
