Forest Gayte Pride CIC is a grassroots community project based in the East London neighbourhood of Newham. Since our inception in 2017 Forest Gayte Pride has grown from a single market stall and a queer night in a local pub to an organised Community Interest Company. As a dynamic committee, we work alongside allies and volunteers within our community on events and functions to promote and engage in educational, cultural and civic activities in order to enrich the lives of LGBTQIA+ people in Newham and beyond.

Our primary aim is to give a voice to LGBTQIA+ residents of Newham through events and education; creating a platform for the queer community to speak out and express themselves in a safe, inclusive space, during pride and beyond. We work to create a safe and welcoming environment within the community for those at risk, in particular the marginalised members of Newham, offering help, advice and support to those who need it, as well as educating and engaging with the allies who want to stand by the LGBTQIA+ community.

THE IMPORTANCE OF GRASSROOTS ACTIVISM IN THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY

THE IMPORTANCE OF GRASSROOTS ACTIVISM IN THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY

Grassroots activism in the LGBTQIA+ community and independent Pride events are more important than ever. Following a series of thought-provoking talks and webinars during the 2024 Pride season, it has become clear that the fight for equality and representation is far from over. Local activism creates spaces for authentic voices, drives real change, and ensures no one in our community is left behind.

Learn more about grassroots efforts and their importance from organizations such as Stonewall and Consortium, which offer resources and support for grassroots LGBTQ+ groups.

NEWHAM IS IN THE 10% MOST DEPRIVED BOROUGHS IN THE UK

In Newham, a borough facing high levels of deprivation, healthcare and welfare organizations play a vital role in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. We work with services like Shine, the NHS sexual health service for young adults, and Metro Charity, which provides health, community, and youth services to LGBTQ+ individuals. We also collaborate with advocacy groups such as London Renters Union to address social and economic disparities affecting our community.

These connections help ensure that queer individuals, who might otherwise lack access, receive essential health, wellbeing, and social services. At the same time, we educate allies on the systemic issues affecting LGBTQ+ people today, fostering understanding and action.

78% OF NEWHAM’S POPULATION IS FROM BLACK, ASIAN, AND OTHER MINORITY ETHNIC BACKGROUNDS

Newham’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, yet it also highlights the unique challenges faced by those at the intersection of ethnicity, religion, and LGBTQ+ identity. To ensure authentic representation and support, we’ve partnered with groups such as London Queer Muslims, UK Black Pride, and Bisexuals of Colour.

These partnerships allow us to provide culturally sensitive advice, support, and information while raising awareness about the specific barriers these communities face within their families, faiths, and wider society.

A 160% RISE IN HATE CRIMES AGAINST THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows alarming increases in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals, with 1 in 5 lesbian, gay, or bisexual people, and 2 in 5 trans people, experiencing hate crimes in the last year.

Through our work, we aim to combat these statistics by fostering safer spaces and providing support networks for LGBTQ+ residents of Newham. Additionally, we are committed to educating allies on how to actively support the community, challenge hate, and stand up against discrimination. For resources on allyship, visit Galop, which provides support for victims of anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes.

LGBTQ+ YOUNG PEOPLE ACCOUNT FOR 25% OF HOMELESS YOUTH IN THE UK

Shockingly, less than half of UK adults in a YouGov poll said they would be happy and proud to have a child who identifies as LGBTQ+. This lack of acceptance often leads to family rejection, contributing to homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth.

We are proud to support AKT, a charity dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Through ongoing fundraising efforts and awareness campaigns at our events, we help shine a light on this critical issue and ensure that young queer individuals in Newham know they are not alone.