Saint Lucia raises Pride flag for the first time in milestone for LGBTQ+ rights

The Pride flag was publicly raised in Saint Lucia on August 29th, signaling a new era of visibility and acceptance for the island's LGBTQ+ community. The historic event took place at the Résidence de France, coinciding with the launch of 758 Pride's 2025 Pride celebrations. This significant step follows closely on the heels of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court's recent decision to declare the island’s archaic buggery and gross indecency laws, which criminalized consensual same-sex relations, unconstitutional.

As reported by Saint Lucia Times, Randall Theodule, Communications Officer with the Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality, emphasized the importance of the moment, stating, "The Pride flag flying high here today sends a powerful message of acceptance, safety, and unity, not only to those gathered here but to every LGBTQ person who may still be searching for hope and belonging."

Jessica St. Rose, the founder of 758 Pride, highlighted the necessity of visibility, noting, "We felt it necessary to show our presence… to be recognized as a community that is in Saint Lucia. It is very important for the community to be visible."

The 2025 Pride celebrations, organized by 758 Pride, include a series of activities designed to foster dialogue and community engagement. These events, as reported by the St Lucia Times, will feature roundtable discussions and community celebrations, further promoting understanding and acceptance.