Supermodel Naomi Campbell and actress Vanessa Williams were among the high-profile figures who lent their vivid support to the 2024 London Pride Parade on Saturday, an event that stands as one of the largest celebrations of LGBTQ+ communities globally. Naomi, at 55, captivated the crowd in a sleeveless, fitted bodice mini dress paired with chunky shades and proudly showcased a pride flag, embodying the parade’s vibrant spirit. Vanessa, 62, dazzled alongside her, radiating in a multi-coloured sequined jacket as she continues to make London her home while starring as Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada musical at the Dominion Theatre.

Walking with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan—who has been a consistent and vocal ally to the LGBTQ+ communities—the celebrities moved through the parade’s route, which began at Hyde Park Corner before making its way down Green Park, Piccadilly Circus, and concluding at Westminster. Khan, joined by his wife Saadiya, led the event with a message of pride and inclusion, highlighting London’s role as a beacon of openness. He emphasised that “love will always triumph over hate,” marking the event not only as a colourful festivity but also a powerful statement of solidarity and acceptance among the 32,000 marchers and around 500 community groups and businesses present.

The parade showcased a rich tapestry of expressive costumes, music, and performances, including headliners such as US singer Chaka Khan and other artists like Drag Race winner Ginger Johnson and X Factor’s Janice Robinson, underscoring the event’s inclusive theme, #WeAreEverywhere. Notable attendees also included singer Paloma Faith, seen celebrating with her dog in a rainbow skirt and matching alongside a friend, and comedian Sandi Toksvig, who shared a tender moment with her wife Debbie on the main stage, much to the crowd’s delight.

While the parade was largely a jubilant celebration, the event was not without controversy. A group of four Youth Demand protesters disrupted proceedings by throwing red paint on a CISCO truck participating in the parade and gluing themselves to the vehicle in front of The Ritz, charging the company with accusations of ‘genocide’ and stating they had ‘no place’ at the event. This protest came just hours after Palestine Action was banned and designated a terrorist organisation by the UK government. The demonstration delayed the parade for about an hour, resulting in the arrest of five individuals. Meanwhile, in Parliament Square, around 20 protesters were detained after they expressed support for Palestine Action near the Gandhi statue, shortly after the ban on the group came into effect.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the arrests and stated that specialist officers intervened quickly to remove the protesters, allowing the parade to resume with a significant police presence still in place. Despite the disruption, the overwhelming atmosphere of the day was one of celebration, joy, and a powerful affirmation of LGBTQ+ visibility and rights, reflected in the colourful displays and shared chants of the thousands of participants.

The 2024 London Pride parade was a vivid reminder of London’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, celebrating the contributions and presence of LGBTQ+ communities from all walks of life, while navigating the complexities of contemporary political activism intersecting with the event.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services