Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group are working together on a community Pride flag and need your help!
The group is inviting local residents to contribute to a patchwork flag which will be made from hundreds of colourful squares that celebrate all aspects of the LGBTQ+ community.
“The Progress Flag design represents everyone and truly reflects our outlook,” said Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group chair David Shaw MBE. “Pride celebrates inclusivity and acceptance. We want friends and allies to take part, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community in Ilkley and surrounding villages.”
An appeal has also been made for donations of material, which can be left in the box outside 30 Nelson Rd Ilkley LS29 8HN. Email ilkleyggt@gmail.com for materials and advice how to take part. There is also information about the project here: https://express.adobe.com/page/YyFLXi60tNQ2C/
Prof Becky Malby leading the project is hoping to organise a sewing date, where people bring their sewing machines and have a fun day all together. Becky said: "We will ask school children to bring in an old piece of colourful clothing, which they can then decorate. This would also fit in with the 'eco' message that we are always trying to promote in schools."
The group hope to parade the flag at Ilkley Carnival on 2 May and display it at the first Ilkley Pride event for adults and youths on Saturday 2 July at the King’s Hall and Winter Garden.
For the event in July the group is looking for more business sponsorship and advertisers, Chair David added: “We are also seeking local talent to perform, organisations & businesses who wish to have a stall/workshop on the day plus volunteers to steward.
“We wish to involve charities like Outside the Box. Brook St Deli, Ilkley and Wharfedale Breweries plus others that have already offered their help. We would love to hear from local LGBTQ+ business owners too. Email ilkley.pride@gmail.com, see our Facebook page @ilkleypride or contact 07740797281.”
IGS has appointed an Ilkley Pride Youth Ambassador for this project and to link with The Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group. These events and projects are supported by Ilkley Town Council, Bradford Council, Local Councillors, Robbie Moore MP & Ilkley Round Table.
The Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group meet again at The flying Duck on Wednesday 2 March for a social at 7pm – all interested should e mail ilkley.pride@gmail.com