To mark 35 years since the first Pride parade in Belfast, this episode of Big Sexy Talk was recorded live following a special screening of the film Pride as part of Informing Choices NI's Open Conversations: Film, Rights & Cultural Change series.

Host Ruairi Rowan is joined by Joe Walsh, former Heritage Project Officer with HERe NI, to reflect on the history of Pride in Northern Ireland, how LGBTQIA+ communities have changed over the past three decades, and why preserving LGBTQIA+ heritage matters.

Together they explore Pride as both a celebration and a protest, the role of community and solidarity in advancing equality, the importance of sharing LGBTQIA+ stories, and the progress that has been made alongside the challenges that remain.

Whether you're interested in Northern Ireland's social history, LGBTQIA+ rights, or the conversations that continue to shape our communities, this episode offers a thoughtful reflection on the past, present and future of Pride.

Useful links

1. HERe NI  
2. The Rainbow Project                                                                             
3. Cara Friend                                                                                                             
4. Sexual Health NI

BBC Sounds

• Blood on the Dance Floor