Powerful Storytelling and Celebration at Heart of Edinburgh Pride Events

Throughout June, staff, students, and the wider community are invited to take part in talks, exhibitions, and celebrations that shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of queer identity and culture.

Highlights include a queer data showcase, a student-led exhibition on activism, and a talk examining same-sex marriage law in the US Supreme Court. The events are part of a national effort to honour Pride - a time to reflect on the struggles and achievements of LGBT+ people, and to celebrate their continued impact in all areas of society.

As a symbol of solidarity and visibility, the Progress Pride flag will be raised later this month at Old College to coincide with the city’s main Pride celebrations.

One of the key installations this month is We have always been here. And we always will be - an exhibition currently on display in the Usher Building at Edinburgh BioQuarter. The project, co-created by History and Politics student Ash Scholz and volunteers from the University’s Centre for Research Collections, documents the stories and impact of queer student activists throughout the University’s history.

On Thursday 5 June, the AI Ethics & Society group will present a Queer Data Showcase, featuring academics, artists, and activists whose work intersects with queer identity and data science. Talks will cover themes from hashtag activism to multimedia jazz improvisation.

on Wednesday 11 June, the Gender + Sexuality Data Lab will host Cornell University’s Dr Jamie Budnick for a public lecture exploring marriage equality and landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases that shaped same-sex marriage rights.

On Tuesday 17 June, University staff based at IRR South Building will hold a charity bake sale, with proceeds supporting LGBT Health & Wellbeing, a local charity that provides vital services to LGBTQ+ adults across Scotland.

Later in the June, Professor Emily Riehl of Johns Hopkins University will deliver the LMS Hardy Lecture 2025 at the Bayes Centre. As a queer mathematician, she will discuss both her personal journey and the philosophical implications of equality in mathematics.

Pride Edinburgh - the nation’s longest-running celebration of LGBT+ communities - returns on Saturday 21 June. The event kicks off at 12.30pm with a vibrant march from the Scottish Parliament to Festival Village in Bristo Square, where live music, DJs, and performances will follow from 2pm.

This city-wide celebration provides a joyful and affirming space for people of all identities, and the University is proud to stand in support.

Staff Pride Network Pride Events 2025

Edinburgh University Students' Association - June events

Pride Edinburgh