Cast your minds back to July this year. Spirits are high. Laughter is plentiful. Thirty thousand people are parading the streets of London under rainbow banners, led by political leaders, celebrities and influencers. Even more line the route, surrounded by endorsements and corporate sponsorships. Everyone is waving flags, painting their faces and showing off their presence on social media, and this will continue into the early hours of the morning as a societal statement by the various queer identities present.
However, while the revellers making their presence known announce their pride in the grandest ways, many countries throughout the world still suppress their queer citizens. Not one month earlier, the organisers of Kenya’s first gay pride were fearing for their lives after threats inspired by their attendance. Societal and legal consent to persecute LGBTQ+ individuals in various societies regularly drives inhabitants to seek asylum in political climates that act as a lifestyle haven. Freedom of expression is something a lot of people take for granted, but which even more seek.