On Saturday 7 June, colleagues came together to take part in York Pride in celebration and support of our LGBTQIA+ colleagues and community.
Despite a rainy forecast, the weather held up well, and both parade-goers and stall volunteers faced only a few light showers. A group set off from the NRM to meet rail industry colleagues at York Station, before marching with them along the new route from St Sampson’s Square to the Knavesmire. The atmosphere was warm and supportive, and we were able to hand out many NRM Pride badges to families along the way.
For the second year running, we also hosted a stall on the Knavesmire. This year’s focus was the ongoing People, Pride and Progress oral history project and its temporary display in North Shed. We spoke to more than 1,000 Pride attendees, many of whom were interested in contributing to the project.
As well as having fantastic conversations at the stall, colleagues handed out hundreds of NRM Pride badges and nearly 1,000 stickers featuring the special illustration created for the project and display. Families also enjoyed craft activities, including designing their own train carriage.
The stall was staffed by curators, archivists, and colleagues from the communications team. For many who usually work behind the scenes, it was a great opportunity to meet members of the public. Being right next to the cabaret stage added to the fun—we were able to enjoy the performances between conversations!
Back at the museum, the STEM Shed in Great Hall hosted a flag-making activity throughout June, which proved very popular. Visitors can still enjoy different activities at the STEM Shed at Percy Main Bridge now.
Pride gave us a wonderful chance to share the People, Pride and Progress project with new audiences. The People, Pride and Progress display features a trail of 10 objects in North Shed, inviting visitors to explore the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people working in rail, gathered from oral history interviews collected so far. We are delighted to announce that the display has been extended—so if you missed it earlier, you still have time to see it until mid September.
