Today we launch the first ever Metro Pride Awards – here’s how to get involved
The LGBTQ+ community isn’t just rainbows and iced coffees – it’s people who work tirelessly, in ways big and small, to help the world.
And for us at Metro, the world deserves to know all about them.
For the first time in our 25-year history, Metro will host an awards ceremony to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
In what will undoubtedly be an unmissable night in the LGBTQ+ awards calendar, the Metro Pride Awards will take place during LGBT+ History Month on February 26.
And Metro readers are encouraged to make their voices heard by nominating their favourite LGBTQ+ heroes across a variety of categories.
‘The Metro Pride Awards is a defining moment for us,’ said Richard Hartley-Parkinson, the executive editor of Metro.
A message from Metro Pride Awards chairman Richard Hartley-Parkinson
Today I am incredibly proud that we are launching the Metro Pride Awards.
As one of the most diverse and inclusive news brands on Fleet Street, it is a huge honour to be chairman of these awards.
At Metro, we don’t confine ourselves to celebrating LGBTQ+ lives during the month of June – we celebrate it all year round.
That’s why we have chosen to host the event in February – a happy coincidence that it will be the 20th anniversary of the UK’s first LGBT+ History Month.
We are really looking forward to hearing about the people you nominate, the unsung heroes as well as those who have a big presence in the world of rainbows.
Like me, many people in the LGBTQ+ community understand that it is an important part of who we are, but we do not let it define us. Firstly I’m a husband, father, northerner and journalist.
But through my work, I am in a very privileged position and that is why I took on the role of chairman for the Metro Pride Awards.
We really hope that you will get on board and help us to recognise those whose work champions LGBTQ+ life and celebrates the brilliant things that happen within the community.
But more important than that, we want to inspire and encourage people who are new to the LGBTQ+ world or struggling with their identity. Most of us have felt that self-doubt, shame and rejection at some point in our lives, but you’re really not alone.
Far from it. You are part of the bravest community there is, made up of countless heroes and trailer-blazers who are leaders in the great fight for justice, equality and respect.
And some of those leaders deserve to be recognised with a shiny Metro Pride trophy but we need your help to shine a light on the + superstars who inspire you and deserve recognition for their contribution to the LGBTQ+ community.
‘We are excited to celebrate those who have made significant contributions not just to the LGBTQ+ community but to society as a whole.’
The Metro Pride Awards will represent people fighting for their rights in a multitude of ways, from political activism and entrepreneurial success to representation on the big and small screen.
They’re not only veteran campaigners and celebrities but also those who may one day be the leaders of the LGBTQ+ community.
The ceremony will also shine a light on brands and organisations that have fought hard to have LGBTQ+ people’s voices heard within their sectors.
Nominations are open from today until November 1, with categories including:
- Celebrity Of The Year
- Broadcaster Of The Year
- Brand Of The Year
- Inspirational Ally
- Music Hero Of The Year
- Sports Hero Of The Year
- LGBT+ Game Changer Award
- LGBT+ Trailblazer
- LGBT+ Role Model
- Rising Star Award
- LGBT+ Business Leader Of The Year
- Marketing Campaign Of The Year
- Business Of The Year
- Best Breakthrough Business
- Most Inclusive Employer
- Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility
- Grassroots or Charity Organisation Of The Year
- Outstanding Contribution To LGBT+ Life
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
A shortlist will be announced in late November, while winners will be decided by Metro readers and a team of judges.
Richard added: ‘By partnering on this event, we are reinforcing our commitment to amplifying diverse voices and shining a light on the remarkable achievements of individuals who inspire us all.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
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