2018 marked the first year that Britain’s Armed Forces marched together at London Pride and this year Blind Veterans UK will be joining the Brighton parade to celebrate diversity and inclusiveness in one of the UK’s most popular Pride events…
Brighton is home to the national military charity’s first rehabilitation and training centre which opened its doors 80 years ago and has been providing support to ex-Service men and women at the site ever since.
Blind Veterans UK Chief Executive, Major General (rtd) Nick Caplin CB spoke of the significance of taking part in the parade: “Our participation goes further than simple tolerance, as we show support and celebration for the diverse parts that make up the Blind Veterans UK family.”
The Blind Veterans UK team of staff, volunteers and blind veterans flying the flag for the charity will be up to 50 strong as they join other military charity the Royal British Legion to represent the ex-service community in Brighton.
Lesley Garven, Centre Manager at the Blind Veterans UK centre says: “This year’s Pride marks 19 years since the ban was lifted on gay, lesbian and bisexual people from serving in the British Armed Forces. We want to show that everyone who serves, or is part of our charity, no matter what their sexual orientation or gender identity, has the right to be treated fairly and with dignity and respect.”
You’ll be able to keep up with the progress of the Blind Veterans UK team at Brighton Pride by following their instastories @blind.veterans or find out more about the charity by visiting blindveterans.org.uk