Every year, Google searches about Pride skyrocket. So we asked Ellie Jones, CEO of local charity Liberate, to answer the most-Googled questions and to give us insights into the most popular 'near me' local searches.
From the meaning of the Pride flag to what the Q stands for in LGBTQ+, as well as where to find therapists and local safe spaces, here's what Ellie had to say.
“Pride Month is in June because it commemorates the Stonewall riots, which are seen as the catalyst for the gay rights movement across the globe. Every year a parade, march, protest, etc. was held, and then across the globe that got repeated.”
“It stands for queer, or questioning. It can be someone who's exploring their sexuality or gender identity, or someone who just feels a little bit different.”
“If you've been looking at social media in Guernsey in the lead up to the local election, you'll see that LGBTQ+ community, and Liberate in particular, have been vilified just for asking to be treated the same as the rest of the community. Some people would rather we were quiet and invisible still. We've been made to feel such shame, which is why Pride is so important - so we can be proud of who we are.
I think across the globe, there's still just under 70 places where it's illegal to be LGBT. And people face discrimination every single day. Until every single person can be accepted for who they are - regardless of how they identify or who they love - then none of us are free."
“Someone that feels a little bit unusual or different about their gender identity or sexuality, in comparison to the majority.”
“It was created by Gilbert Baker in the 1970s when he was encouraged by Harvey Milk - one of the first openly gay politicians in the United States - to create a symbol of hope, pride, and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community.
Over the years the flag has been updated and changed, so we now have the inclusive rainbow. It highlights minority groups within our own minority group, like Black trans women who face more discrimination. So that everyone feels represented and respected.”
Alongside global curiosity, locals are asking how to connect closer to home. Ellie shares where to find support, safe spaces and community in Guernsey.
“Get in touch with Liberate. We’re already planning Pride 2026, and always need volunteers to help with that, and just to help with Liberate in general. Head to the Get Involved page on the Liberate website.”
“It's very apparent that people are not feeling safe out in the night-time economy so we’re trialling a new LGBTQ-friendly bar and safe space over the summer months, every two weeks, and we've had many people, especially from the trans community, come along.
Everyone's welcome. Check our socials for updates.”
“We actually have a new counsellor on board at the moment, so if anybody needs to access an LGBTQ therapist, please get in touch with us”
“We’ve got a trans group, an ‘Out’ group with free social activities - not aimed around the pub and alcohol - and a new summer swim group over the summer, every other Wednesday after work. We have a WhatsApp channel that people can join that keeps people up to date with our events and groups.”
"Town Church is a LGBTQ+ friendly church. They're part of the Inclusive Network and it has always been a really super-friendly place. There are a lot of people from the church who get involved in Pride."
Whether you're Googling for definitions or seeking local support, Liberate is here for you in Guernsey.