On Saturday 24th June, Edinburgh will burst into colour as the LGBTQ+ community comes together for a day of parties and parades. Pride Edinburgh is Scotland’s longest running celebration of diversity, the aim of which is to recognise and celebrate the positive impact the LGBTQ+ community has had, and continues to have, in the world. It’s a fantastic day of fun in the city, but it’s also a great opportunity to educate yourself about the history of Pride and the challenges still faced by the LGBTQ+ community today. Read on to discover what it’s all about, and how the team at YourGP show their support, not just during Pride, but all year round.

How it all began

In June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in New York’s Greenwich Village. Riots erupted and the LGBTQ+ community mobilised themselves – they simply wanted to have the same freedoms as others enjoyed, to be open about their sexual orientation without fear of arrest. A year later, the very first LGBTQ+ march of its kind took place in New York, and since then the Pride movement has grown across the world.

Remembering those who paved the way

Whilst Pride is a joyful celebration featuring music and dance, colour and costumes, it is also a time to remember those LGBTQ+ heroes who have gone before. Those who remember the HIV/Aids crisis, those who have suffered hate crimes, those who fought bravely for gay marriage and transgender rights, and those who continue to push for equality for all.

Get involved

Throughout the day there will be plenty to get involved in, not least the spectacular Pride march which will set off at 1pm from the Scottish Parliament. Join the march or cheer from the sidelines as the march heads to Canongate, High Street, George IV Bridge, Bristo Place, Lothian Street, Potterrow, Crichton Street, and Charles Street, and ends at The Pride Edinburgh Festival Village in the EUSA Complex.

How YourGP supports the LGBTQ+ community all year round

The spirit of Pride is essentially about acceptance, it’s about embracing who you truly are so you can lead your best life. And that is something that YourGP wholeheartedly supports – in fact it’s something that our team works tirelessly with many patients to help them achieve. We offer a safe and welcoming environment to all, a place where anyone can talk openly about their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged.

From screening tests and treatments, to counselling services – our services are inclusive and accessible. We welcome everyone as an individual at our Sexual Health Clinic and Gender Clinic and we respect each person’s right to anonymity.

If you would like to speak to a healthcare professional within a supportive environment, use our online booking form, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.