Mid and East Antrim Pride Celebrates Historic Double Award Win

Mid and East Antrim Pride has achieved significant recognition by winning two prestigious awards at the recent Belfast Pride Festival. This honor follows the successful inauguration of Ballymena’s first Pride event, which took place on June 28, 2023, and attracted hundreds of attendees to celebrate diversity, visibility, and inclusion within the community.

The parade marked a historic milestone for Ballymena as participants marched from Waveney Road to Greenvale Street. Organisers hailed the day as a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ representation in the region. A statement from the event committee expressed, “It was a powerful moment for the community, marking a new chapter for LGBTQ+ representation in the area.”

Among the accolades received, the event secured the title of “Highlight of the Year,” recognizing the overwhelming solidarity, joy, and resilience demonstrated by local residents. Despite facing minor disruptions on the morning of the parade, the event proceeded as planned, and the community’s support transformed the day into a genuinely memorable experience.

In addition to the “Highlight of the Year,” Mid and East Antrim Pride was also awarded “Event of the Year.” This recognition reflects the success of a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that showcased the support for LGBTQ+ individuals within the Mid and East Antrim area. The committee noted, “The success of Pride offered a different narrative – one of hope, progress and genuine community spirit,” countering previous negative portrayals of Ballymena in the media.

The committee expressed gratitude to Belfast Pride for the recognition and acknowledged the contributions of local businesses and volunteers that played a crucial role in making the event a success. They stated, “Mid and East Antrim Pride would like to thank everyone who played a role in making the day such a meaningful and memorable success.”

The achievements of Mid and East Antrim Pride not only celebrate diversity but also signify a growing acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. As communities worldwide continue to promote inclusion, Ballymena stands as a testament to the positive change that can emerge from local efforts.