Pride in Connection: Amplifying LGBTQIA+ Voices in Rail
​We're delighted to be working with Gloucestershire Heritage Hub and Pride in Gloucestershire to connect with the local LGBTQIA+ community for 3 core aims
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To collect insights and stories from the community about their experiences of living and travelling in Gloucestershire. These stories, experiences and contributions will be held by the archives for years to come and plug significant gaps in the history of LGBTQIA+ people across the county.
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To create an inspiring Queer History map of Gloucestershire connecting local people and visitors to queer history relevant to Gloucestershire local LGBTQIA+ meeting spaces, events, and social groups.
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Through community engagement and travel surveys improve our understanding of the travel needs. Behaviours, barriers and gaps of the queer community in Gloucestershire. The information gathered will then be curated into a report which will be shared with GCRP's stakeholders to create better understanding regarding the specific needs of the community relating to travel and transport.​​
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At Gloucestershire Community Rail Partnership, we believe that public transport should be welcoming, safe, and inclusive for everyone. Our Pride in Connection campaign is dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ stories, improving representation in rail travel, and ensuring that stations and services are spaces where everyone feels they belong.
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What We’ve Learned So Far
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Through attending Pride events and engaging directly with LGBTQIA+ communities, we’ve discovered:
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Safe spaces matter – Many people told us they want public transport to feel safe and welcoming, especially when accessing rural areas.
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Representation is key – From visibility in station artwork to hearing the voices of LGBTQIA+ rail workers, representation helps encourage a sense of belonging.
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History needs preserving – There’s a rich but often hidden history of queer stories linked to the railway. Our upcoming Queer History Map will showcase these untold narratives - updates coming soon on this, so watch this space!
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Building connections is vital – Meeting people at Pride events has reinforced the importance of community-driven change in shaping the future of transport.
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The Queer History Map
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A guide by rail to LGBTQIA+ people and places in Gloucestershire
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To mark Pride Month, we have launched an illustrated travel map and station exhibition celebrating LGBTQIA+ lives, heritage and communities across the county.
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The new map 'Exploring LGBTQIA+ Gloucestershire' highlights local stories, queer history, Pride events, and grassroots community groups. It’s designed to encourage inclusive, safe and welcoming travel by rail, especially for those in rural areas who may feel isolated or disconnected.
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Created by local artist Sherina Steele, the map features portraits of people who’ve shaped Gloucestershire’s LGBTQIA+ history, from historical figures like King Edward II and Alan Turing, to community change makers such as Bee Bailey, Olly Alexander, and Suzette Davenport.
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“We all have a role to play in creating inclusive public spaces. The future of rail is exciting and we want to make it one where everyone feels safe and empowered to be themselves.”
- GCRP
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The campaign forms part of Railway 200, celebrating 200 years of the modern railway and the role of rail in connecting communities - past, present and future.
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In association with...
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​​​Kindly funded by....
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