Hachette UK’s employee Pride network launches festival celebrating LGBTQ+ authors

Hachette Pride, the LGBTQ+  network for Hachette UK employees, is partnering with authors from across its publishing houses to host Pride in Writing, a month-long celebration of LGBTQ+ authors and their stories from around the world. 

Following an online-only festival in 2021, this year’s programme includes a mix of two in-person and online events open to the public and will feature 13 Hachette UK authors, including Stella Duffy, Laura Kay, Jill Nalder and Okechukwu Nzelu.

The festival, now in its third year, will run from 21st to 30th June and will be focused on the themes "Resistance" — marking the 50th anniversary of the UK’s first official Pride march — and "Queer Joy", celebrating the return to in-person events after the Covid-19 pandemic. Events include Pride in Writing Live 2022 on 30th June at 6 p.m. at the Apple Tree Pop-up in Clerkenwell Green, London.

Sophia Blackwell, co-chair of Hachette Pride, said: “One of our themes this year is that the personal is political, and that will be true of the final Pride in Writing event of the month at the Apple Tree Pop-up; a warm, welcoming community space. This year’s celebrations are about wellbeing, mental health, family – including chosen family – and above all, the authors.”

Ellie Bowker, co-chair of Hachette Pride, commented: “Hachette Pride is so excited to return to in-person events, where we can really come together and support our LGBTQ+ authors at Hachette UK. Last year, we dealt with some heavy topics facing our community — such as the closure of beloved gay clubs and the erasure of queer history. This year, we really want to celebrate the joy of being part of the LGBTQ+ community, being out and being proud.”

Katie Espiner, executive sponsor of Hachette Pride, added: “The themes of resistance and queer joy feel as relevant today as they ever have. Pride in Writing centres our authors and their stories, and provides a celebratory space both for our LGBTQ+ authors and the wider community.”

As part of its wider Pride Month celebrations, Hachette UK will also be matching donations to the Pride in Writing festival, up to £1,000, which will benefit LGBTQ+ charities. More information on events and how to get involved can be found at Hachette Pride’s Twitter page.