Durham Pride agrees minimum pay deal with Equity

Meanwhile, the event’s organisers are to appear at Equity’s annual conference in Durham this weekend (9th to 11th May), participating in a presentation that celebrates the region’s LGBTQ+ and trade union history. 

Equity general secretary Paul W Fleming: “Equity conference will again be a campaigning conference, and we’re starting with a win – celebrating one of the UK’s first collective agreements for a Pride event, based in the city of Durham. 

"The hosts of our conference venue at the Miners’ Hall are the Durham Miners’ Association, who fought for and funded Durham Pride when the Reform County Council pulled the plug. 

"We’re excited to bring Equity delegates to the Pitman’s Parliament, an incredible place which is testament to what our movement can build when we’re accountable, aspirational, collective and industrial.” 

Equity member and Durham-based drag artist Miss Tess Tickle added: "I’m really proud to see Durham Pride taking this step and working with Equity to set proper minimum standards for performers. 

"Drag, cabaret and live performance are a huge part of what makes Pride celebrations vibrant and meaningful, and the artists who give their time, energy and creativity deserve fair pay, clear terms and professional respect.

“This agreement is a positive move not just for Durham Pride, but for pride events across the region and the UK. It shows that our community celebrations can also lead the way in supporting the people who bring them to life on stage."