Pride Action North (PAN) are set to host their second Progression Ball and Awards 2025, sponsored by Newcastle Building Society on Friday 7th February 2025 which marks the beginning of LGBT+ History Month in recognition of the work being carried out by organisations and individuals to make the North East a more inclusive, diverse and accepting place for all.
Following the roaring success of the 2024 evening, Pride Action Northare proud to deliver this event jointly with ReportOUT, a leading global human rights charity, dedicated to protecting the rights of sexual and gender minorities in the UK and worldwide.
Together, both organisations are committed to creating a safer, more inclusive communities locally and globally for LGBTQIA+ people. Through grassroots projects, education and collaboration with other organisations we work to address community needs and amplify the voices and experiences if individuals.
The event will be held at the Grand Hotel Gosforth Park and include a night of entertainment, a three-course meal, auction, performances, raffles, games galore and hear inspirational stories from a range of LGBTQIA+ people as well as human rights advocates dedicated to advancing inclusivity and making the world a more welcoming place.
To make the night even more enjoyable, the theme is Pride Prom – offering guests the chance to freely express themselves, especially since so many LGBTQIA+ people may not have felt comfortable attending prom or had the opportunity to experience it because of their gender or sexual orientation.
Darren Irvine-Duffy, Pride Action North Chair, said: “We are extremely excited to launch the second annual Progression Ball and Awards which celebrates the amazing achievements of LGBTQIA+ people and communities across the North.”
“The Progression Ball is a testament to how far we’ve come as a charity, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make it an unforgettable event for everyone.
It’s the perfect chance to bring LGBTQIA+ communities closer together and embody our slogan ‘together we are stronger.’”
“This year, we are thrilled to partner with ReportOUT, a leading charity established in 2019, dedicated to protecting the human rights of sexual and gender minorities in the UK and globally.
ReportOUT is committed to advancing the lives of sexual and gender minorities through fearless advocacy, combining international development principles with human rights frameworks. Aligned with Agenda 2030’s pledge to leave no one behind, they ensure these communities are central to their mission.
ReportOUT’s work includes eliminating human rights infringements, conducting research, raising awareness, educating the public, monitoring abuses, engaging in international advocacy, and advising governments.
This partnership reflects our shared vision of empowering sexual and gender minorities and driving meaningful change.”
Drew Dalton, Chair of ReportOUT, said: “In light of the global shift to the right, with populist leaders taking control and the rollback of EDI and LGBTQ+ rights across some parts of the word, it has never been more important to uplift those who are fighting to make the world fairer. Being partners in this event and being the only LGBTQ+ human rights organisation outside of London, we get to celebrate some truly inspirational local people and their work to advance LGBTQ+ rights as a member of the community, or as an ally.”
The evening will also include an awards ceremony to recognise the amazing achievements in promoting and supporting local and global communities as well as individual achievements in the following categories;
- Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Newcastle Building Society;
- Youth Achievement Award, sponsored by Newcastle College;
- Third Sector Award, sponsored by Ability Consultants;
- Ally Award, sponsored by Square One Law and the;
- Business Award, sponsored by Northumbrian Water.
Darren said: “We have firsthand experience of the incredible work being done to support LGBTQIA+ communities across the North East. We’re excited to share these inspiring stories with a broader audience and to celebrate those who go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels accepted for who they truly are.”
“Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is central to our Purpose at the Society. As an inclusive organisation, we’re committed to creating a ‘Place to Be You’ for our colleagues, members, and in our approach to local communities. We’re proud to be involved in this year’s Northern Pride March and support the Newcastle Frontrunners LGBT 5K race through sponsorship and volunteering
“We stand in solidarity with our colleagues and members who identify as LGBTQ+ to remember the important history of Pride and continue to fight for inclusion and acceptance for all.”
Ledine Mitchelson, from Ability Consultants, said, “At Ability Consultants, we strongly believe in the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion. We are thrilled to support this event once again, as it aligns with our values and contributes to building a more equitable world for everyone.
“It is a privilege to be part of this occasion and to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community on their journey toward equality and acceptance. Together, we can create a future where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is valued for who they truly are.”
To find out more information, visit: www.prideactionnorth.org.uk/awards