Havering's only LGBTQ+ organisation launches Pride sticker campaign in Romford
An initiative aimed at boosting LGBTQ+ visibility and fostering safer community spaces has been launched in Romford by Kaleidoscope, the London Borough of Havering’s only dedicated LGBTQ+ organisation. The campaign will see colourful Pride stickers displayed in shop windows across the town, signalling supportive and inclusive environments for gay, trans and queer residents.
The sticker project is the culmination of a new five‑month programme of monthly events hosted by Kaleidoscope. The organisation, founded in 2022, has traditionally run meet-ups for LGBTQ+ people aged 17 to 24, but is now expanding to include adults aged 25 and over following funding from Havering Council’s Community Chest.
A spokesperson for Kaleidoscope said the initiative comes at an important time for the community. Recent national debates and legal rulings underscore the need for stronger solidarity and visible support, they explained, adding that even small acts - such as shop‑front stickers and awareness pamphlets - can make a meaningful difference.
The programme will run across five themed monthly gatherings, beginning with a karaoke night led by drag artist Chamonix Aspen on 30 January. A creative workshop will follow on 26 February, with participants later invited to a bouldering session at Romford Rock and Boulder on 26 March. The final sessions will explore LGBTQ+ history and guide attendees through developing and designing the Pride stickers and accompanying pamphlets ahead of their planned rollout on 21 May.
The pamphlets will include information on reporting hate crimes and guidance for local shop staff on recognising and reducing microaggressions. Kaleidoscope emphasised that the group welcomes people from all backgrounds, including straight and cisgender allies.
The launch forms part of a wider cultural push in Havering to support LGBTQ+ residents and increase visibility within local public spaces. With Kaleidoscope’s ongoing creative, social and educational activities, the organisation hopes the new sticker campaign will help build a safer, more welcoming Romford for all.
Comments ()