Pride, Community, and Culture: inspiring assembly leads into June celebrations
On Wednesday 11th June, students in Years 9, 10 and 12 were treated to a moving and thought-provoking assembly led by Diversity and Inclusion Prefect, Toby L. His articulate and passionate presentation marked the beginning of the school's Pride Month celebrations and set the tone for the upcoming Culture Day.
Toby’s talk centred on the theme of community, using Pride Month as a powerful example of unity, resilience, and global solidarity. Tracing Pride's origins back to the 1970 Stonewall Riots, he reminded students of the importance of both celebrating love and self-expression, and standing with those still fighting for equality in places like Ukraine, where LGBTQ+ communities continue to advocate for their rights even amid war.
Using real-world example, including the Kyiv Pride March held in Warsaw in 2022 and solidarity marches in Liverpool, Toby underscored how global LGBTQ+ communities support one another, not for personal gain, but out of shared humanity and hope.
Bringing the message closer to home, Toby encouraged students to reflect on their own communities, especially within school. He stressed that mutual respect and kindness are the foundation of any positive and inclusive environment, urging everyone to contribute to a more supportive school culture.
In a call to action, Toby announced a Pride Month fundraiser happening the following Monday, organised by sixth formers in support of Outright International, a global LGBTQ+ rights charity. Activities will include a tuck shop, face painting, and a “beat the goalie” competition, with all proceeds going to support LGBTQ+ individuals in vulnerable situations worldwide.
He also reminded students about the school’s upcoming Culture Day on Friday 27th June, themed ‘Community’. The day will include cultural activities, performances, and a non-uniform celebration of heritage, highlighting the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Toby’s presentation not only educated but inspired, leaving students with a clear message: community matters and it starts with how we treat one another every day.
