Article
July 26, 2025 11:00
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Adams + Oliver's DE&I Manager, Jo Drury talks about the work that went in to launching Windsor's first ever Official Pride event, the events of the day, and her ongoing participation on Windsor & Eton Pride's Committee, and what that means for the LGTBQIA+ community in Windsor.
Jo says "Nearly two years ago I was asked to join Windsor & Eton Pride's Committee with a view to help organise and launch the very first official Pride event in Windsor. With its historic background, and iconic landmarks, Windsor has been a familiar town across the world for years, and with the amount of tourism it attracts it has become a vibrant hub of diversity and bustling local community.
Bringing Pride to Windsor seemed like a natural thing to do, and I was honoured and excited to be a part of it."
Organising Windsor’s first Pride was a massive undertaking that spanned nearly two years, and it involved a blend of logistical planning, community engagement, fundraising, and creative vision.
Jo was a big part of the event, and explains, "On Saturday 26th July 2025, that vision became a reality. As the parade marshal, I had the privilege of helping guide the spectacular procession that began with a horse-drawn carriage travelling down the iconic Long Walk, with spectacular views of Windsor Castle. The carriage, was followed by hundreds of marchers carrying banners and flags in a sea of colour, and the parade processed through the magnificent Cambridge Gate and through central Windsor. Local businesses and sponsors proudly joined in, adding their voices and support to the celebration, and the streets were lined with flag waving locals, all enjoying this unique experience.
The festivities continued all day in Alexandra Gardens, where three stages hosted more than 50 live performances from incredible local acts. The atmosphere was electric, families, friends, and visitors of all ages enjoyed an event that was safe, inclusive, and fully accessible, overseen by our team of Committee Members and Volunteers, ensuring everyone had the best time and there was something for everyone to enjoy."
One of the day’s most magical moments came when Sir Ian McKellen made a surprise appearance on stage with Notice Productions, a local youth theatre and film company. He played a cameo role in their film Dragged Through Time, a creative and moving exploration of LGBTQIA+ history, which premiered during the celebrations.
Windsor & Eton Pride was more than just a festival—it was a statement of unity, acceptance, and pure joy."
What the Windsor & Eton Pride organisers had to say about the day:
"The inaugural Windsor and Eton Pride exceeded even the wildest ambition of the volunteer organising committee who literally put blood, sweat and tears into making it happen.
• On the 26th July 2025 we believe we engaged over 9000 people ranging from local business supporting us with Pride themed events, messages on socials and donations to the suppliers, traders, artists, volunteers, onlookers and most importantly guests.
• Our historic Pride included between 300-400 marchers.
• At the peak in Alexandra Gardens we had around 3000 people with a total for the day of over 5500.
• We had 80 traders & community organisations with a presence on site.
• We had over 50 acts performing across 3 stages, and that doesn’t include all of the guests slaying it in the Karaoke tent.
Our vision is to create platforms that allow the communities of Windsor and Eton to celebrate that we are all the same, we are all uniquely human."
Jo continues, "For the LGBTQIA+ community in Windsor, this event was more than just a colourful parade and a day of celebration, it was a visible and powerful statement that our town stands for inclusion, equality, and respect. Pride gave people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities a safe space to be unapologetically themselves, to feel seen, and to connect with others who share their experiences. It sent a clear message that Windsor embraces diversity not just in words, but in action.
For me personally, as Adams & Oliver's DE&I Manager and MyGwork Mentor, it was also a proud moment for our business. We have always championed diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of our core values, and being part of this historic day reinforced how important it is for employers to actively support the communities they serve.
Pride aligns perfectly with our commitment to creating opportunities for everyone, whether in the workplace, in recruitment, or in the wider community, and it reminded me why representation and allyship matter so deeply in everything we do.
Being part of Windsor’s first Pride was both a privilege and a joy. It was a day when history, community, and love came together in a way that I will remember forever.
Watch this space for next years event!"
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