The co-founder of St Helens Pride has spoken out amid ongoing criticism of the Reform UK-led borough council's decision to withdraw support for the event. Miguel Doforo emphasised that the town's celebration of the LGBTQ+ community is rooted in visibility, inclusion, community, and bringing people together.
Earlier this month, after sweeping to power in May, the new Reform UK leadership of the borough council confirmed it would no longer provide backing for Pride events this year. This move has drawn criticism from across the wider Liverpool City Region.
Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram stated that LGBTQ+ events are something "we should be proud to promote," while Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool Council, suggested there might be "something more sinister" behind Reform UK's decision. Mr Doforo took to social media to clarify his organisation's position after weeks of debate.
He said: "Amid all the noise, speculation and commentary that has followed this year's St Helens Pride, I feel it's important to clarify a few things as one of the founders of the event. First and foremost, St Helens Pride happened this year. It was our 7th annual Pride, and it was delivered successfully. There appears to be some confusion around funding. St Helens Council did not fund St Helens Pride this year, and they did not fund the event last year either."
Mr Doforo explained that financial backing came from See You See Me CIC, its supporters, and headline sponsor Halton & St Helens Voluntary and Community Action (VCA). In 2024, the CIC also provided support alongside The Black-E in Liverpool. He added: "Therefore, our concerns are not about funding from St Helens Council. The concerns we have raised relate to comments and statements that were made following this year's Pride event."
The Pride co-founder, who did not mention the new Reform leadership by name in his social media statement, paid tribute to the local authority for playing a "significant role in helping St Helens Pride become established." He said: "In those early years they not only provided funding, but also stood alongside us, rain or shine, helping with infrastructure, support and the practicalities needed to deliver an event of this scale."
Mr Doforo also singled out the former Labour leadership for having "consistently supported" Pride. He added: "They attended, participated and stood alongside the LGBTQ+ community. This year, many of those same individuals once again attended and supported the event."
Amid the ongoing debate, the event co-founder stressed the importance of being "honest, fair and accurate" about how events are run. He said: "We can challenge things we disagree with whilst also recognising and appreciating the support that has been given in the past. St Helens Pride has always been about visibility, inclusion, community and bringing people together. It was founded on those values and, seven years later, those values remain unchanged."
He concluded: "Thank you to everyone who has supported St Helens Pride over the years. The event has only ever been possible because of the people, organisations, volunteers, sponsors, performers and community members who believe in it. Let's continue to have conversations based on facts, respect and a shared commitment to our community."
