Proud Ness organisers have announced they will go forward as Highland Pride in recognition of the LGBT+ community across the region.
The name change kicks off 2020 with a new winter pride programme during the month of February to coincide with LGBT history month.
Last July, Proud Ness was one of the biggest pride events in Scotland, topping both Edinburgh and Glasgow numbers with more than 10,000 people in attendance from all over the Highlands and Islands, Moray and further afield.
Ambitious plans are now underway for summer 2020.
Chairwoman Jess Taylor explained the name change: “We want to ensure that the LGBT+ community, and allies who travel from across the Highlands to attend our summer event in 2020, know that this is their event too. It is the pride event for the Highlands.
“People can also get involved by organising events in their local communities such as social meet ups, fundraisers, workshops, talks and satellite pride celebrations which we can help to promote under the Highland Pride umbrella in the lead-up and during the event.
“We hope this will stimulate further social and networking opportunities across the Highlands throughout the year.”
Whilst the summer date is still firmly under wraps for now, Highland Pride organisers are warming up winter with a month of LGBT+ talks, workshops, book readings, film screenings and more during February 2020 to coincide with LGBT History Month.
Ms Taylor added: “We’re a small team, mainly based in Inverness-shire, so we need your help to extend events across the Highlands for winter pride which we’ll promote as part of the month-long programme.
“So, if you have an idea for an ABBA Night in Aviemore, coffee meet-up in Cromarty, film night in Fort William, poetry night in Portree, talk in Tain, under 18’s night in Ullapool, or a walk in Wick we want to hear from you.
“Alternatively, if you already have plans at your local library, school or community centre for LGBT history month please also get in touch.”
