Chesil Youth Pride returns to Weymouth with 'We Are Family' theme
– 2 min read
Chesil Youth Pride returns to Weymouth for its third consecutive year on 28 June, with a renewed commitment to celebrating and supporting LGBTQ+ young people across Weymouth, Portland and the wider Dorset area. This year’s theme, We Are Family, highlights the importance of unity, inclusion, and mutual support among families and communities.
This youth-led event was established in response to feedback from young people who expressed a need for safe, affirming spaces where they could freely express their identities. Since its inception, Chesil Youth Pride has grown into a vibrant celebration of diversity, attracting over 200 attendees in 2024, including young people, their families, friends, and allies.
James, a 16-year-old student from Weymouth, shared his perspective on the event’s significance: “Chesil Youth Pride is such an important event to me and others because it brings people closer together. It creates a community of like-minded individuals. Every year is different, but always incredible.”
The event will commence at 12pm at Weymouth College, featuring a variety of creative activities and opportunities for young people to engage with local services and share their ideas for improving youth experiences in Dorset.
At 4.30pm, the Pride Parade will begin at the college, proceeding through Greenhill and along the Esplanade, culminating at the Pavilion. The day will conclude with a musical celebration at the Pavilion, supported by funding from the Co-Op.
A notable addition to this year’s programme is the introduction of a Safe Space Charter, developed by young people to identify and promote inclusive environments. Dorset Council libraries will be the first to display the charter and accompanying sticker, signifying their commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
Councillor Clare Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills at Dorset Council, stated: “Chesil Youth Pride is about ensuring that all young people in Dorset feel a sense of belonging, safety, and inclusion—while also enjoying a joyful and celebratory experience. We are especially proud to launch the Safe Space Charter in our libraries and look forward to welcoming many young people to this year’s event.”
