Birmingham City Council has confirmed it will fly the pride flag at the council house ahead of Birmingham Pride, following the decision by emergency services to withdraw from the parade. The rainbow flag will be displayed in the city centre from Friday, May 22, marking the annual parade and festival. Additionally, the Library of Birmingham will be illuminated in rainbow colours to celebrate the event.
Emergency Services Withdraw
West Midlands Ambulance Service announced it would not participate in the procession, citing legal advice, and noted that the fire and police services had also withdrawn. West Midlands Police confirmed they would have an operational presence during the event, policing without fear or favour. The parade begins on Victoria Square at noon on Saturday, May 23, and will proceed towards the LGBTQ+ Village via an alternative route due to roadworks on New Street.
Council's Commitment
Birmingham City Council has historically flown the Pride flag for the weekend of the event and will continue this tradition. The Library of Birmingham, the largest of its kind in Europe, will be illuminated at twilight on both Saturday and Sunday. Over 40,000 people are expected at the festival site, with more than 75,000 lining the streets for the parade.
A council spokesperson said: 'Pride helps create a city where everyone can live without fear or prejudice. It also supports the LGBTQ+ community year-round through projects and partnerships across Birmingham and the West Midlands.' Attendees are advised to plan their journeys ahead of time due to ongoing rail strikes that may disrupt travel.
