Francis Brown and Jeff Hocking, two friends who took part in Wales’ first gay Pride march in 1985, reminisce about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community 40 years ago. In a recent interview with Wales Online, they described a time of anxiety, fear, and secrecy for many people simply for being themselves. Francis and Jeff were both students in Cardiff in the 1980s, a time when being openly gay was still uncommon and fraught with dangers such as harassment, bullying, and violence. The first Pride march in Wales, held in 1985, marked a significant moment of visibility and resistance for the LGBTQ+ community in the country.
Back in 1985, being openly gay was not widely accepted or protected by the law. There were very few role models, and many LGBTQ+ individuals felt the need to hide their identities in various aspects of their lives. The first Pride march in Wales was a brave and groundbreaking event, with only a small number of people participating compared to today’s larger, more celebratory Pride events. The march, which took place in Cardiff, required permission from local authorities and police, reflecting the challenges faced by the community at that time.
Francis Brown, now 63, shared his experience of being part of the GaySoc group at university and the initial excitement of being out and proud. Despite the small turnout at the first Pride march, Francis and his fellow participants faced potential risks and fears, including concerns about their jobs and safety. The presence of police at the march underscores the climate of hostility and prejudice that existed towards LGBTQ+ individuals in the 1980s.
Jeff Hocking, who witnessed the march from outside a shop on Queen Street, recalled the palpable atmosphere of the event and the courage displayed by the marchers. He highlighted the novelty and challenges of navigating the gay social scene at that time, where gathering places were often discreet and required courage to enter. The sense of community and solidarity among LGBTQ+ individuals provided a safe space for socialising and connecting with others who shared similar experiences.
Reflecting on the progress made since 1985, Francis and Jeff noted the significant changes in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals. They highlighted the importance of visibility, representation, and advocacy in challenging discrimination and promoting acceptance. Both men expressed pride in witnessing the positive shift in attitudes, especially among younger generations who are more open and accepting of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
As Wales celebrates LGBT+ history month, events organised by Pride Cymru aim to honour the legacy of past struggles while celebrating the achievements and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. The stories shared by Francis Brown and Jeff Hocking serve as a reminder of the progress made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance in Wales over the past four decades. Their experiences offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the past and the importance of continued activism and support for equality and inclusivity.
In conclusion, the journey of LGBTQ+ rights in Wales is a testament to the resilience and courage of individuals like Francis and Jeff, who paved the way for greater visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. Their stories highlight the ongoing importance of preserving and celebrating LGBTQ+ history, while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to achieve full equality and inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.