Imperial Pride Network begins its 20th anniversary, glowing with Pride.

LGBTQIA+ staff, students and allies joined Pride in London’s 2026 parade, celebrating 20 years of inclusion, visibility and community at Imperial.

Members of the Pride Network at Imperial joined thousands of people from across the world to take part in one of the UK's largest celebrations of LGBTQIA+ communities. 

Colleagues marched together through central London, proudly representing Imperial and Imperial College Union while celebrating the diversity that makes up its community. 

As ever, the parade provided an opportunity for people to connect and celebrate alongside organisations, charities and community groups from across the city. 

Celebrating community across Imperial

For the Pride Network, Pride in London is about more than taking part in a parade. It is an opportunity to bring together LGBTQIA+ colleagues, postgraduate students and allies from across the university, creating new connections and strengthening existing ones. 

Seeing colleagues from across Imperial marching side by side was a powerful reminder that inclusion is everyone's responsibility. Alex Carroll and Philip Howell-Williams Co-chairs of the Pride Network

Throughout the year, the network creates spaces for learning, discussion and celebration including community events during LGBT+ History Month and Pride Month. These help foster a culture where people feel welcomed, supported and able to bring their authentic selves to work and study. 

This year's Pride celebrations were particularly special as the Pride Network marks its 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, the network has grown through the passion and dedication of volunteers who have championed inclusion, built lasting communities and supported LGBTQIA+ people across Imperial. 

Looking ahead

As the Pride Network celebrates its twentieth anniversary, it is already preparing for its next chapter by bringing in a new visual identity in line with the new Imperial branding and updating its name from Imperial 600 (i600). 

The Pride Network committed to working with colleagues and partners across Imperial to create opportunities for connection, celebrate LGBTQIA+ voices and foster a culture where everyone feels they belong. 

Find out more and get involved by visiting the Pride Network's website.