Mendip District Council raised the rainbow flag outside it's Shepton Mallet offices to show support and solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities in Mendip and to commemorate Stonewall.

Staff and councillors gathered together at the Council's flagpole for a ceremony, and Deputy Leader, Cllr Barry O'Leary delivered a personal speech in which he described what Pride meant to him.

Cllr O'Leary said: "Pride Month is an opportunity to showcase the diversity of our district and one of Mendip's fundamental values - that we represent, and are here to serve, everyone.

"One of the most special moments of being a councillor at Mendip is on 28 June when we fly the Pride flag, because it continues to be a beacon for people still fighting for LGBTQ+ rights. 

"It is a reminder that when the change we seek comes, and when we move a little bit further on our journey toward equality, we still have a responsibility to reach back and help pull up others who are striving to do the same. This is true because if you've felt the sting of discrimination, then you don't just fight to end discrimination for yourself, you've got to fight for others who need opportunity.

"It is also particularly poignant this year, as it is the fourth and final time the District Council flies the flag at Mendip before the new unitary Somerset Council is created next year.

"There is still a lot of work to do, but I'm proud of the progress we have made to make Mendip a fairer place – and we did it together!"

During Pride Month, the Council changes its usual logo on its social media for the colourful Pride version as a public message of support. The Council has also been sharing information on how to report a hate crime and where to get help.

However, Mendip recognises that support and work with the LGBTQ+ community should not only happen in June. The Council has created a webpage of LGBTQ+ support organisations working in Mendip and Somerset, which can be found here: www.mendip.gov.uk/lgbtqplus.

LGBTQ+ Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall riots, which began on 28 June 1969. As a result, many pride events are held during the month of June to recognise the impact LGBTQ+ people have had in the world.

If you are hosting any LGBTQ+ events in Mendip or in the surrounding area this summer, do let the Council know, so that they can help to spread the word - tag them on Facebook and Twitter @MendipCouncil.