The summer of 2023 saw Oasis embarking on our most ambitious season of Pride events ever. While the roots of Pride lie in protest, Pride is also a vibrant celebration of love, joy, acceptance and equality. Pride allows Oasis to reach out to those waiting to find us, offering the opportunity to network, mark our place in the world, and of course, enjoy wonderful days. While Pride is personally very important, I remind myself that not everybody in Oasis identifies with the rainbow, but we value all of your support, as well as that of allies, friends, and families. Thank you; we couldn’t do Pride without you.
We kicked off on Saturday, 17th June 2023, at the 2nd edition of Norwich Trans Pride, held in Eaton Park, Norwich. The Jasper and the organisers (who had also curated Queerfest back in February) worked incredibly hard to put on a fantastic line-up, full of young vibrant entertainers from right across the gender spectrum. It is a shame that in recent years the need for Trans Pride has become more and more apparent, as the Trans community is under a constant barrage of negativity from the media and other voices. Trans Pride gives us a moment to stand together and find our voice.
The day was, at times, quite overwhelming. If Oasis is our family, Trans Pride is our tribe. Hi to all of our new friends, and we keep all of those who couldn’t be with us in our hearts. We can’t wait to meet again very soon.
Inspired by Serena, on 1st July, Oasis found itself at a lovely bijou event ‘Dereham Does Pride’. Organised in a remarkably short time, which included a last-minute change of venue, the effervescent Kerry King and her team produced a truly heart warming event. We met so many wonderful people, including the delightful Jaqui, who was recruited to our ranks on the spot! Pride can be a place where dreams can come true, even impossible ones, and so it was for Serena, who could have never imagined enjoying such a special day so close to home.
Saturday 15th July saw Jacqui and me make a quick pit-stop at Bungay Pride. In the face of some strong winds, the Pride event was switched to the delightful Fisher Theatre; again, a remarkable feat at short notice. These Pride organisers don’t let anything stand in their way, and Leon produced a sweet afternoon’s fun aimed at younger people. It is so inspiring to see so many of them expressing their gender identity in such a free and safe space.
Then the big one! On Saturday, 29th July, it was time for the 16th incarnation of Norwich Pride, which shines so brightly from 10 am when the doors of The Forum swing open, to dusk when the Oasis crew gather for our customary meal at Pizza Express. Inspired by Theresa, our new Oasis banner made its maiden outing in the Norwich Parade, though we did manage to lose both the banner and Amy in the vast crowd that Norwich always attracts. Fortunately, we were reunited on the route as we weaved our way through the massed banks of spectators.
A special thanks goes to the Norwich Organisers (who always produced an impeccably run day) for giving increased emphasis to the T in LGBTQI+. Such a public show of support is much appreciated.
Finally, on August 19th, Oasis pitched up in The Walks in King’s Lynn, where Dee truly excelled herself. From the back of her car, Dee magically produced an array of goodies, including her famous pink gazebo for our display boards, and a second gazebo that allowed Oasis to have its very own VIP/Green Room area, which was the envy of the King’s Lynn Pride community.
As the dark clouds rolled away, we enjoyed a fabulous day in glorious sunshine with a glass of pink bubbly (suitably chilled in Dee’s fridge), that included Theresa and Alex raising the Oasis banner high during the parade from the centre of town.
The Pride movement spans the UK and across the world, with London Pride being the highlight for many. This year, we had a special connection with London Pride, as our very own Petra W was at the very front of the London parade, celebrating Petra’s amazing contribution in promoting inclusivity within the Women’s Institute movement. Petra also attended Brighton Trans Pride in July, where she bumped into Lauren. It’s a small Pride world.
Thanks go to all of our Priders: Serena, Rachel, Alex, Amy, Theresa, Phyllis, Lauren, Jaqui, Beccie, Katie, Petra, Hana, Andrea, Nick, and his beautiful family. Also, a special thanks goes to the amazing and ever-resourceful Dee, who always brightens our day and our Prides. Finally, thanks to the weather apps (especially Serena’s), which delivered warm and dry weather when we needed it in an otherwise rather dismal summer.
The 2023 Pride season was a resounding success for Oasis, leaving a trail of love, unity, and leaflets in our wake. From the big parades to the intimate gatherings, it brought Oasis and the wider community together to celebrate diversity, advocate for change, and stand in solidarity. It was a season filled with joy, reflection, and a renewed commitment to the ongoing fight for equal rights and acceptance, and oh most importantly pink bubbly.
As we look forward to the future, the 2024 Oasis Pride season will be bigger and better and coming to a town near you!
Pride, love is all around.
See you there.
Love
Lilly
x
oasis norfolk 