FridayOL

London Pride was buzzing with energy this year, and amidst the celebrations, a special pop-up shop, 'Queer Was Always Here,' stole the show. Actors Sebastian Croft (Heartstopper) and Connor Jessup (American Crime) were at the heart of it all, championing the cause and sharing their reflections on why Pride remains so crucial in 2025.

The 'Queer Was Always Here' pop-up wasn't just about selling merchandise; it was a statement. Offering limited-edition 'status tees' that captured the spirit of the day, it served as a vibrant reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility. Croft and Jessup, both passionate advocates for the community, were present to engage with attendees, share their perspectives, and amplify the message of Pride.

“Pride has always been about visibility, about claiming space, and about celebrating who we are,” Croft explained, surrounded by a crowd eager to hear his thoughts. “But in 2025, it feels even more vital. We’ve seen progress, absolutely, but we’ve also seen a resurgence of harmful rhetoric and legislative attacks on LGBTQIA+ people, particularly trans individuals. Pride is a reminder that the fight isn’t over, and that we need to continue to stand up for each other.”

Jessup echoed Croft’s sentiments, adding, “It’s easy to become complacent when you see positive representation in media or hear politicians making supportive statements. But Pride is a powerful antidote to that complacency. It’s a space to connect with others, to find strength in community, and to remember that we’re not alone in our struggles.”

The actors highlighted the importance of intersectionality within the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing that Pride must be inclusive of all identities and experiences. They spoke passionately about the need to support trans and non-binary individuals, people of colour, disabled LGBTQIA+ people, and those facing multiple forms of discrimination.

“It’s not enough to just be ‘tolerant’,” Jessup stated firmly. “We need to be actively supportive and create spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and respected. Pride is a chance to do that, to learn from each other, and to build a more equitable future for all.”

The success of the 'Queer Was Always Here' pop-up and the engagement of Croft and Jessup underscored the enduring power of Pride as a celebration, a protest, and a vital reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality. As Pride celebrations continue across the UK and around the world, these words serve as a powerful call to action: to remain vigilant, to continue fighting for justice, and to never forget why Pride matters more than ever.

Their presence at Pride and their commitment to LGBTQIA+ advocacy demonstrate the important role that actors and public figures can play in raising awareness and inspiring change. Croft and Jessup’s message resonates deeply, reminding us that Pride isn’t just a party; it’s a movement that requires constant dedication and unwavering support.