Proud Watford has celebrated its second anniversary with a community event held at Charter Place, Atria Watford, bringing residents and supporters together to recognise the town’s LGBTQ+ community.
The organisation was set up to support LGBTQ+ people by creating safe and welcoming spaces. Since its launch, it has organised events, workshops, and campaigns to promote equality and inclusion across Watford.
Ian Port, Founder and Chair of Proud Watford, said, “Marking the 2nd anniversary of Proud Watford during Pride Month in Atria’s Charter Place publicly and surrounded by the newly installed and innovative bunting was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and why our work is so important. Proud Watford is all about bringing people together, finding common ground, building friendships, sharing joy, and recognising that we have more in common than what divides us.
“A huge thank you to all our volunteers, partners and Proud Patrons for their continued support and belief in our aspiration for a town where prejudice of all kinds is tackled effectively and permanently.
“Congratulations to our latest Proud Patron, Atria’s Centre Director Simon Plumb. We are delighted to recognise Simon’s genuine and personal commitment to ‘a place without prejudice’ and leading the way in demonstrating being open to all makes great business sense.”
Tina Fuller, Radio Presenter at Vibe 107.6 FM, said, “As a straight woman and LGBT+ ally, being part of Proud Watford fills me with joy. They are an incredible, caring, and welcoming organisation. Being an ally is not just about offering support; it’s about showing up, speaking out, and standing alongside our LGBT+ community every single day. Proud Watford does amazing work to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and make Watford a place without prejudice.
“Being the host of Proud’s second birthday at the Atria was such a special moment for me this pride month and it’s an experience I will treasure forever!”
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, who is also a Proud Patron and attended the celebration, said, “Proud Watford’s second anniversary was a brilliant celebration of everything they’ve achieved. They are a fantastic organisation that brings people together through enjoyable events for everyone, helping to break down barriers in our community.
“This Pride Month, we celebrate our town’s diversity, which strengthens our town.
“Thank you to Proud Watford for all the brilliant work they are doing as together we work to make our town a place without prejudice.”
Simon Plumb, Centre Director of Atria Watford, said, “We’re proud to have hosted Proud Watford’s 2nd anniversary celebration here at atria. Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is incredibly important to us, and it’s a privilege to support an organisation that brings such energy, positivity, and meaningful change to our community. Being named a Proud Patron is an honour, and I look forward to continuing to support Proud Watford’s vision of a town – and a centre – built on equality.”
The event included musical performances, a DJ set, speeches, and refreshments, giving people a chance to come together and celebrate.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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