Agreement signed to protect performers at Manchester Village Pride
Equity and Manchester Village Pride unite on workers' rights
Equity and Manchester Village Pride have joined forces to sign a landmark union agreement, ushering in vital protections for drag and burlesque performers at the newly established festival set to take place in Manchester Gay Village in summer 2026.
The collaboration comes in the wake of Manchester Pride's collapse last year, an incident that left numerous performers unpaid and facing substantial financial losses. With no previous Equity agreements at Pride events, this step marks significant progress in safeguarding performers' interests and rebuilding community trust and confidence.
Addressing Urgent Needs
The agreement comprehensively outlines measures to ensure performers are paid adequately and protected from workplace mistreatment. It mandates minimum 20% deposits and 30-day payment periods, promising performers that their work will never go uncompensated. Furthermore, the agreement introduces a range of health and safety provisions alongside a Dignity at Work Policy to prevent any bullying or harassment.
Karen Lockney, Equity’s North West Official, shared her views, emphasising that marrying LGBTQ+ rights with workers' rights is vital. She said: “We are delighted to sign this landmark union agreement with Manchester Village Pride. The work our members and the MVP Board of Directors have done to reach this agreement is the first of its kind, leading the way for other Prides to follow. This is at it should be - a celebration of LGBTQ+ rights must be tied to workers’ rights, and this agreement protects performers' pay, terms and conditions and health and safety."
Rebuilding Trust
Manchester Village Pride, according to Lockney, is deeply rooted in the community it serves. The union agreement is a step towards rebuilding trust among performers following last year's financial setbacks with Manchester Pride. Lockney highlighted Manchester's global stature as a champion of LGBTQ+ and worker rights, making this agreement fitting and timely.
Future Outlook
The Manchester Village Pride festival will be held over three days during summer 2026, with Equity gaining access to performers during the event for ongoing support and guidance while ensuring adherence to agreed standards. Looking ahead, Equity plans to fortify the agreement further, paving the path for potentially stronger commitments for 2027. With Manchester Village Pride setting an example, the hope is for other Pride festivals across the country to follow suit in advocating and implementing similar agreements that protect and honour the rights of performers.
Equity’s involvement underscores the importance of facilitating a safe and fair working environment, ensuring that the essence of Pride events not only celebrates community achievements but also upholds the dignity and rights of those who perform, entertain, and inspire.