Birmingham Pride 2023: Seven moments that made us proud on Day One

It’s a huge celebration of diversity as thousands of people across Birmingham and beyond come together with our LGBTQIA+ community in a colourful showcase of acceptance and unity.

Day One of Birmingham Pride featured the vibrant Pride Parade which began outside the New Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square and made its way through town to the LGBTQIA+ village and Smithfield.

Last night the Sugababes headlined the main stage with live performances happening across five other stages. Tonight the headliners are B*Witched and Gabrielle. There were so many highlights throughout the day but here are seven moments that made us so proud. Here’s seven of the best.

1. Fatt Butcher shuts down a hate preacher

Birmingham drag queen Fatt Butcher (aka Adam Carver) shuts down a homophobic hate preacher who told him how everyone loved him - despite disagreeing with everything he said. Adam said: “Repent your sins, darling? Repent YOUR sins. Do you know what babes? We are love, and the only sin that’s happening right now is you spreading hate.”

2. Key workers rewarded for decicated work

Nurses, firefighters and police joined the parade in colourful costumes with some painting their faces. We especially love the celebrations from West Midlands Fire Service - what a fun truck to be on.

3. Southside celebrations

Much of Birmingham Pride is taking part in the Southside area of the city and its directors are very proud of the party. The fireworks captured by Southside District director Karen Newman just show what an amazing celebration Birmingham Pride is.

4. Colourful costumes

There have been some amazing costumes at Birmingham Pride 2023. But we agree with Cllr Liz Clements, who represents Bournville and Cotteridge, that his Creme Egg stye number with a nod to Cadbury really is particularly fetching.

5. Brummie Pride

Birmingham is renowned for its warm welcome and diversity. Pride is a perfect example of how the city takes pleasure in accepting people from all backgrounds. It unites people of different cultures, races and faiths. Saima captures this beautifully.

6. People come together

Friends unite across the city to celebrate together at Birmingham Pride. It’s a chance to catch up with old friends - and make some new ones. It’s great to see Brummie rapper Lady Leshurr back in town for the celebrations.

7. The Bullring Bull says it all

Our beloved Bullring Bull has got a new outfit for Birmingham Pride. He’s renowned for getting dressed up for key events in Brum, so it’s lovely to see his latest outfit which has been attracting so much attention.