One of the largest events of its kind in Europe, every year over August bank holiday weekend tens of thousands of people fill the streets, clubs, theatres, bars and galleries of Manchester for Manchester Pride to celebrate LGBTQ+ life in the city.  

This year however, in light of COVID-19 restrictions, the celebrations look quite different with many artists and organisations taking their activities online or into other socially distant environments. So whilst there is no physical Pride event this weekend, there are scores of performances, events and conversations taking place online, on the radio and across social media – there’s even a parade, which this year has been filmed in advance to keep it safe for those taking part. 

Testament to the vibrancy and determination of Manchester’s LGBTQ+ creative communities these alternative festivities are shaping up to be both as spectacular and pertinent as ever and we at MIF can’t wait to enjoy all that the city has to offer in these incredibly challenging circumstances. 

MIF are incredibly proud to have supported a great number of fantastic Manchester-based LGBTQ+ artists over the last few months through our various creative funding opportunities made available in response to the COVID-19 crisis. As we celebrate Manchester Pride we are taking the opportunity to look back at and re-share some of our favourites. 

Roma Havers and Friends – Paying Attention! 

Watch six of the best queer writers in Manchester; Frankie Blaus, Roma Havers, Mandla Rae, Ella Otomewo, Okechukwu Nzelu and Rosie Garland read from their work, discuss their practice and attempt to answer a vital question: ‘Now that you have our attention, how would you like to be read?’  

Hear more from Roma in the latest Sexuality Summer School 2020: Digital Prequel Roundtable event discussing queer archives alongside international queer icons such as Del LaGrace Volcano and Topher Campbell.