Newbury Pride bans political parties from attending the 2025 event in Victoria Park on July 12

Newbury Pride is taking a stand against the recent Supreme Court ruling about trans people by banning political parties from this year’s event, writes Maisie Day.

The ruling that excludes trans women from the legal definition of ‘woman’ “is not just a legal decision ... it’s a call to action,” Newbury Pride said in a statement.

“In solidarity with Pride organisations across the UK, we have made the difficult decision to ban all political parties from participating in our event and march.

“We welcome everyone to join us, but please do so without a party banner.

“Allyship isn’t something you wear on a sash; it’s something you demonstrate through action.

“We take this decision with heavy hearts but unwavering conviction.

“The rights, dignity, and safety of our trans siblings are under attack, not just in distant places but right here in the UK, right now.

“To every political party: If you want to be part of Pride, show us. Not with floats or flags, but with action, policy, and protection.

“Trans people are not a political football: we are your family; your friends; your neighbours, and we are done waiting.”

The ban on political parties comes amid growing concerns over the rights, dignity and safety of trans people in the UK.

A decade ago, the country was named as a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights across Europe but today it has fallen to 22nd place.

So, in conjunction with Pride organisations across the UK, political parties will banned from participating in Newbury Pride in Victoria Park on Saturday, July 12.

“Injustice against one group is injustice against all,” the Newbury Pride committee stated.

Newbury Pride has announced that this year's event will return to the protest roots of Pride. In the 1980s and 90s, Pride stood with marginalised communities, including striking miners.

Newbury's Pride said: “We don’t need your promises; we need your courage.

“Don’t debate our existence, delay our rights, or decide for us without us.”

Newbury Pride’s committee demands “full, enforceable protections under the Equality Act; a complete, loophole-free ban on Conversion Practices; timely, respectful access to gender-affirming healthcare on the NHS; and a reformed, accessible process for Gender Recognition Certificates”.