By
BaxterStorey
Posted 12 hours ago
Tue 09 Jun, 2026 12:06 AM
Pride Month - every year in June - is about so much more than big parades and colourful flags (though we love these too!). It's about history, resilience, the triumphs of the LGBTQIA+ community and continuing the push for a more inclusive future.
At university, it's also a great reminder to make sure everyone in the UAL community feels welcome, safe and celebrated for who they are, all year round. It's the perfect time to spark a conversation, connect and share the joy, and a great way to do this is through food!
So what is Pride?
Pride actually started as a riot against police brutality at a small dive bar in New York City called the Stonewall Inn. A protest for basic human rights, sparked by historic figures like Marsha P.Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. Rooted in activism, today celebrating Pride means championing:
- Authenticity – supporting the right of every person to live openly and safely as their true self.
- Community – creating spaces of belonging and chosen family.
- Visibility – elevating LGBTQIA+ voices, acknowledging their history and recognising the continuing fight for global equality.
How to celebrate through food
- Spot a rainbow-themed treat in our cafés? Use it to start a chat with a friend or someone completely new, even sit down and enjoy it with a coffee together and get to know one another.
- Put on a baking competition with your flatmates to see who can make the most colourful and tasty bakes. Like this viral colourful dot cake recipe which is perfect for beginners:
More ways to celebrate inclusively
Making sure everyone at UAL and beyond feels welcomed and part of the community isn't about grand gestures. It's the small daily choices we make to lift each other up. Here are a few ways you can show up:
Take some time to learn more about LGBTQ+ literature, listen to podcasts or read about the history. Understanding the diverse experiences within the community is a fantastic step towards true allyship.
Introduce yourself with your pronouns, respect others' pronouns and identities and gently challenge discriminatory language if you hear it in any space.
Check out the events happening on and off campus, like this Brunch and Parade event with Halls Life! Or treat yourself to a colourful bake or vibrant dish in the canteens and cafés, keep your eye on them popping up on the counters soon to add a bit of extra brightness to your day ✨
P.S. If you see someone sat on their own in the canteen, why not offer to sit with them and spark a conversation? It could make someone's day.
