Join us for #Safertobeme 2025

Join us for #Safertobeme 2025

October 22, 2025

This week we are proud to be hosting the Safer To Be Me Summit with ReportOUT bringing thousands of people together from around the world standing in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community to make the world safer for everyone to be who they are.

For the first time ever, the UK will host a week-long global LGBTQ+ Summit—and it’s happening right here in our region.

For the whole week, the North East will take centre stage as we welcome the world to stand together for LGBTQ+ rights.

Under the theme ‘Local to Global’, this powerful week of events is all about unity, visibility and action. In a time when LGBTQ+ communities face growing challenges around the world, this summit is a bold statement: we won’t stand by.

We’ll stand up—for equality, for inclusion and for each other.

We’re working alongside brilliant local partners Pride Action North, OUT North East and ReportOUT to deliver a vibrant, inspiring programme that reflects the strength and spirit of our region. From thought-provoking talks to creative showcases, it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and community.

This is more than a Summit. It’s a movement. And it’s happening right here in the North East highlighting our inclusive spaces, boosting our local economy and showing the world just how welcoming our region truly is.

Headline speakers or panellists include:

  • Lady Phyll – Co-founder and CEO of UK Black Pride
  • Peter Tatchell – renowned human rights campaigner
  • Jeroen Cooreman – Belgian Ambassador to the UK
  • Kate Osborne – local MP and LGBTQ+ campaigner
  • Professor Sue Sanders – SchoolsOut and co-founder of UK LGBT+ History Month

Tickets for the main conference on Thursday and Friday are still available—don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event. To find out more and book your place, visit safertobeme.org.uk.