TransPennine Express Celebrates Pride Month

The train operator has adorned its staffed stations with rainbow banners and flags to show its support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Photographed: Robert Dixon, Customer Service Supervisor at TPE's Stalybridge Station

Harriet Harbidge, Diversity and Inclusion Manager for TPE, said: “We’re proud to celebrate Pride Month and show our support to the LGBTQ+ community.

“We believe in equality and inclusion for everyone and want to create a welcoming environment for all of our customers and colleagues.”

The decorations will be displayed throughout June, which is recognised as Pride Month around the world. The annual celebrations honour the LGBTQ+ community and commemorate the Stonewall riots, which took place in June 1969 and are considered a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Harriet added: “Whilst June marks Pride Month, we strive to create an inclusive environment at TPE year-round.

“We work closely with our LGBTQ+ networking group where our colleagues can have their say on what’s most important to them.”

Earlier this year, TPE received an award for its approach to diversity and inclusion at the prestigious Rail Business Awards.

Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service & Operations Director for TPE, said: “The Pride rainbow is a powerful sign of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. It represents the many different identities within the LGBTQ+ community who have struggled for equality and justice.

“By dressing our stations we’re showing our support to the community and celebrating the progress that has been made.”

In addition to decorating its stations, TPE has also issued a ‘Pride Pack’ to all of its colleagues to educate and provide guidance on the history of Pride Month and how colleagues can be intentional allies to the LGBTQ+ community. 

TPE is also encouraging passengers to share photos of the decorations on social media using the hashtag #PrideOnTheRails