Heavy rain couldn’t keep people away from Walthamstow Trans Pride’s return to Trades Hall on Saturday (24th October)
Despite the pouring rain, hundreds turned out to Walthamstow Trades Hall for Trans Pride on Saturday, 24th October.
The grassroots, volunteer-led event welcomed trans+ people, friends, and allies for what organisers called “a day of celebration and collective care”.
The day began with a programme of free events, including a workshop on how to change one’s name by deed-poll and a round of queer line-dancing.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, guests could also enjoy haircuts provided by Wizard of Hair, massages, badge-making and crafts, and a nourishing community meal prepared by Gleaners Cafe and Mini Hiba, all included in the price of admission.
The hall was filled with queer artists, makers, traders, and community organisations, offering everything from handmade clothing, artwork, and tooth gems to practical advice, healthcare information, housing resources, and mutual aid.
Organisations including Switchboard, The Love Tank, and Trans Action for Housing Justice were among those sharing resources and support.
A ‘Trans Admin Station’ also offered a safe and informal space for people to chat about gender affirming healthcare and other aspects of trans life, sharing experiences and advice with others who had navigated, or were navigating, similar journeys.
As evening arrived, the celebrations continued with a performances curated in partnership with the anti-fascist queer collective sTink, followed by DJs and dancing into the night. For those wanting a break from the festivities, a dedicated chillout room offered a welcoming space to rest and recharge, with softer lighting, sensory resources, and creative activities.
Guests also heard rousing speeches, such as by Walthamstow Trans Pride community member Benji who spoke about “the power of grassroots organising, looking after one another, and building networks of care when institutions let us down”.
Meanwhile, Hil from Waltham Forest for Palestine also spoke about the “connections between struggles for trans and Palestinian liberation, and the importance of standing together across communities and borders”.
This year, organisers also launched a Community Solidarity Fund to help trans+ residents of Waltham Forest access essential services and practical support when they need it.
The Community Solidarity Fund has now raised over £2,000, with fundraising set to continue until the end of the year.
Local businesses, organisations, supporters as well as Waltham Forest Council have come together to support both the event and its wider fundraising efforts.
East of Eden hosted a fundraising strength training session, and Misfit Gym will be holding a Halloween fundraiser on Saturday, 31st October.
You can donate to the Walthamstow Trans Pride Community Solidarity Fund here – for more information please email [email protected]
All photos are courtesy of Tarun Iyer – Instagram: @tarunisms
Local news needs your support
We are proud that we were at the forefront of reporting on the recent local elections. We can’t do this without the support of our readers.
Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.
If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.
ACT NOW!
Monthly direct debit
Annual direct debit
£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.
More information on supporting us monthly or annually
More Information about donations
