Today (27 October) Equity launched a petition calling on Manchester City Council to make up the shortfall for the dozens of workers left unpaid due to the liquidation of Manchester Pride and the failures of their Board.
After the collapse of the organisation running Manchester Pride, performers and creatives have been left unpaid for the work they have already done during the festival, to the tune of £50,000 (and counting).
The petition, addressed to Leader of Manchester City Council Bev Craig, highlights that "Each year Pride brings £34 million into the Manchester economy and performers are at the heart of that, yet Equity members have been left unpaid for amounts ranging from £150 to £3-5k. Many now face not being able to afford their rent and bills."
It goes on to demand that "Before the council move on to discussions of Pride 2026 and beyond, they must first ensure that all of the workers left unpaid from the 2025 event receive what they are owed in full."
Sign the petition nowAre you owed money by Manchester Pride?
Equity is urging performers and creatives still waiting for payment from August’s Manchester Pride event to get in touch with the union as soon as possible. Tell us if you have affected by filling out this form or contact us directly on northwestengland@equity.org.uk
We’re collecting contractual information to pursue all options to recoup money owed and will begin these processes immediately. A collective voice stands a stronger chance than individual approaches.
Support Manchester Pride workers
Support workers left unpaid following the liquidation of Manchester Pride by signing our petition and spreading the word.
Sign the petition now
