Every year pride stands as a celebration of people, community, love and progress. But Pride is, and always has been, a protest. It’s an expression of each year’s battle for equality, acceptance and justice. There is still a fight, it still matters and lives still depend on it.

Hateful movements across the globe seek to destroy progress so fearlessly fought for and as we stand witness to increased assaults on the rights of trans and non-binary people, fervent cases of racism in the community and more, we’re reminded that there’s still so much to fight for!

So this Pride, join us in telling your LGBTQIA+ heroes how much they mean to you. Share a message of solidarity to the queers, allies, human beings of all races, genders, loves, lives and experiences. To the activists and trailblazers who dream of a better tomorrow and to those who inspire you every day to be your whole, true fabulous self. The everyday heroes whose impact can be felt by one or by many.

Shape History is B Corp Certified Social Impact Comms agency dedicated to propelling change-makers to create a fairer world faster through smart strategy, creative communications, and impact-driven activations. We work with purpose-led companies, philanthropic institutions, sustainability innovators, charities, and global campaigns on the biggest issues facing humanity today. Have a project in mind? <a href=”https://www.shapehistory.com/work/”>Learn more here.</a>

We encourage you to write from the heart and express your support and appreciation for the queer heroes who have paved the way, special loved ones who have had an impact on you or to the community at large. Feel free to share personal stories, words of encouragement, and reflections on the impact they have had on your life or for the community.

We also encourage you to share your letter on your personal social media channels using the campaign’s designated hashtag #SentWithSolidarity. By doing so, you help spread awareness and inspire others to join in amplifying messages love, acceptance, and solidarity to the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.

Ready to pen something powerful? No matter what or who your letter is about or how they’ve been able to connect with you, your submission will contribute to a wider, more powerful collective message.

Keep your letter up to 500 words in long form. Please note that you are welcome to produce an audio or video letter but please keep to 2-3 minutes max.

Keep in mind the importance of respecting individuals’ privacy and consent when sharing personal details.

Yes, you have the option to submit your love letter anonymously if you prefer. Please use the tick box consent statements in the submission capture form to request anonymity. We respect your privacy and understand that some individuals may feel more comfortable sharing their message without revealing their identity.

Letters and messages submitted as part of this campaign may be shared on our campaign website or through other communication channels, such as social media or community events. We will ensure that personal information is kept confidential and only share letters with the consent of the sender.

While we cannot guarantee that every letter will be directly read by the intended recipient, we will do our best to amplify the messages of love and support to the broader LGBTQIA+ community and tag any recipients where possible. Your words have the power to inspire and uplift others.

While you may not want to actively write a letter yourself, we encourage you to amplify campaign’s message using designated hashtags #SentWithSolidarity and sharing the campaign with your friends, family and loved ones.

We also have shared some key charities and causes close to our heart to amplify and support during this time so though you may not want to submit a letter, you can use your voice to rally behind the causes that need it.

There are many resources available to learn more about Pride, LGBTQIA+ history, and current issues. We recommend exploring reputable organisations, attending local Pride events, engaging with LGBTQIA+ community centres, and reading books or articles that provide diverse perspectives on the topic. Here are some key links:

Stonewall UK: Stonewall is a leading LGBTQIA+ rights organisation in the UK. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including educational materials, campaigns, and information about LGBTQIA+ rights and issues. Visit their website at: <a href=”https://www.stonewall.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>https://www.stonewall.org.uk/</a>

LGBT Foundation: The LGBT Foundation is a national charity in the UK that provides a range of services and support to LGBTQIA+ individuals. Their website features helpful guides, information on health and well-being, and resources for specific communities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Check out their website at: <a href=”https://lgbt.foundation/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>https://lgbt.foundation/</a>

UK Black Pride: UK Black Pride is Europe’s largest celebration of LGBTQIA+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and Latin American descent. Their website offers insights into intersectional experiences, showcases events, and provides information on supporting and engaging with the Black LGBTQIA+ community. Visit their website at: <a href=”https://www.ukblackpride.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>https://www.ukblackpride.org.uk/</a>

Gendered Intelligence: Gendered Intelligence is a UK-based organisation that works with young transgender and gender diverse people, their families, and communities. Their website offers resources, training programs, and information on gender diversity issues. Explore their website at: <a href=”https://genderedintelligence.co.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>https://genderedintelligence.co.uk/</a>

Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community goes beyond one campaign. Being an ally is more than just saying you are one or showing up when it’s convenient. It’s about sharing solidarity and supporting your actions.

There’s still so much to fight for and we know that we’re not free until we’re all free. We’ve listed some campaigns close to our heart to learn more about and encourage you to do your part and get involved.

We recognise and walk in solidarity with the trans and non-binary community currently facing an unprecendented amount of targeted hate. We have signposted some incredible campaigns and movements aimed at supporting and uplifting the community. Here are some you can get involved with:

<a href=”https://transpeopleareloved.com/”> #TransPeopleAreLoved Campaign </a>

The <a href=”https://transpeopleareloved.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>#TransPeopleAreLoved</a> campaign is a call to action to allies around the world, to share their love and support for the community amid growing anti-trans rhetoric. Started by Echo along with Birmingham Pride’s Char Bailey, campaigner and model Jude Guaitamacchi, fitness trainer Liz Ridgway, and Saba Ali, a trustee at the charity Galop UK. <a href=”https://transpeopleareloved.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Share the message and learn more here.</a>

You can also support wider trans rights and acceptance with <a href=”https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Mermaids UK</a> and learn more about Trans civil rights with <a href=”https://www.transactual.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>TransActual</a>

In light of the recent update on legislation regarding Ban Conversion Therapy, it is clear more advocacy needs to happen. You can learn more on the <a href=”https://www.banconversiontherapy.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Ban Conversion Therapy Campaign here</a>

Support Queer Asylum Seekers with <a href=”https://www.rainbowrailroad.org/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Rainbow Railroad</a> &amp; <a href=”https://www.asylumaid.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Asylum Ai</a>

Help support queer people facing homelessness with <a href=”https://www.akt.org.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>AKT</a>