(This news story was updated on 17 July to reflect that applications to take part are now closed.)

Brighton & Hove Pride is the UK’s biggest Pride event, and the University is honoured to be taking part in the Pride Community Parade once again. Taking place on Saturday 2 August, the parade promises to be a highlight of Pride weekend – and staff, students and alumni will join our walking party in the parade on the day.  

Brighton Pride aims to celebrate diversity and inclusion and promote respect within our community. The biggest visitor event in our city’s calendar, Pride supports local LGBTQ+ charities and causes through fundraising and in recent years over £1.4million has been raised for charities, projects and community groups.  

Current students, staff and alumni have signed up to take part in the University’s walking party in the Community Parade. The parade starts at Hove Lawns and ends at Preston Park, with support available for anyone in the group who may have access requirements. If you're planning on coming along to Pride, keep an eye out for us in the parade on the day!  

Sussex is taking part in Brighton Pride because we stand for what Pride stands for – we both want to make the world a better, kinder and more inclusive place. Being part of Brighton Pride reflects the University’s commitment to inclusion and equality for all LGBTQ+ people including staff, students and the wider community. 

Take a look at photos of the Sussex walking group in last year's Community Parade.

Hear from staff and students who took part in Brighton Pride 2024 

 “Brighton Pride parade is more than just a celebration: it’s a reminder of how far the LGBTQ+ community has come in fighting for our dignity and equality, and a spur to keep fighting. With anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric ramping up across the country, it’s so important that we are visible in support of the queer community - that’s why I was so proud to march with the University of Sussex contingent.” James Croft, University Chaplain

“Being in the parade was the best Pride I have ever had. I got to meet some new people from the University and be proud and dance my little heart out… I loved being a University of Sussex rainbow unicorn. Always here to represent the mature, autistic, non-binary people. Many thanks for letting me be involved and making people smile for the day.” Vicki Phillips, School of Life Sciences

“As a queer-identifying international student from the Philippines, the opportunity to attend the Pride parade with the University of Sussex has been both a humbling and reflective experience. Seeing other people walk with us and celebrate with us is a reminder that the struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion has progressed beyond tolerance. However, the march remains a protest of visibility and solidarity so long as there are people who cannot live their lives truthfully and authentically.” Jaz Malonda, School of Media, Arts and Humanities

“For me Pride is about being who you are, accepting who you are, and being proud of who you are. It’s about saying this is me, and I’m proud to be me. At the Pride parade you can meet your LGBT+ colleagues and celebrate together. Put on your plumage, strut your stuff and feel free - but make sure you’ve broken in your new boots first.” James Mudd, School of Law, Politics and Sociology