By Sian Scott
Wild Coast Sussex Volunteer
The 2023 Hastings Pride event was a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and community spirit. Amidst a sea of rainbow flags, Wild Coast Sussex proudly hosted a stall at the Oval, where we combined our passion for coastal conservation with the vibrant spirit of LGBTQ+ pride.
A Kaleidoscope of Activities
At our stall, we welcomed visitors with an array of activities that encapsulated Wild Coast Sussex’s ongoing goals of connecting people with their local coast and engaging them in marine conservation action. One of the highlights was our free seahorse temporary tattoos – an instant hit among attendees of all ages. We also provided free coastal identification guides; an invaluable resource for those eager to explore Sussex’s diverse coastline.
On the day, we conducted an interactive survey, inviting the community to share their experiences and challenges when accessing coastal habitats. The responses we collected shed light on important issues such as accessibility challenges, environmental concerns, and the community’s desire for more inclusive and sustainable beach experiences.
Breathtaking art by talented local artist, Daisy, was displayed at our stall; illustrating that queer relations are not just a human phenomenon; they are woven throughout nature. For instance, did you know that up to one third of certain Albatross populations engage in life-long, female-female relationships?
Unity in Diversity
In combining the vibrant spirit of Pride with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our coastlines, we were thrilled to see familiar faces, including the dedicated members of the Allsorts team. For the Wild Coast Sussex volunteers that were involved, it was not just a day of celebration but also an opportunity to gain valuable experience in communications, media, and conservation education.
Looking Forward
As we reflect on the success of Hastings Pride 2023, we are already excited about activities planned for the future. Join us on social media (@WildCoastSussex) to stay updated on our latest news and events. Together, we’ll continue to celebrate love, diversity, and our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our coastlines. We hope to see you at our next event.