Colleagues from LNER and TransPennine Express (TPE) have joined together in a show of unity to celebrate the start of Pride Month.
They gathered at York Railway Station alongside LNER’s special liveried train ‘Together’ and TPE’s ‘Unity’ ahead of taking part in the city’s Pride celebrations – the trains, platformed next to each other, a visual representation of the rail industry’s commitment to celebrate its key values of progression and collaboration.
The teams were joined by members and beneficiaries of LGBTQIA+ youth charities Mosaic Trust and The Proud Trust who travelled to York for the popular Pride Parade and Festival.
LNER’s ‘Together’ launched during Pride Month last year. The train’s eye-catching livery was the first in the Azuma fleet to feature on each of its nine carriages. The name champions the unification of all communities which LNER is continually proud to support, as well as the unique relationship between members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies at LNER and the wider industry.
TPE launched its dedicated Pride train earlier this year as part of TPE’s ‘Week of Inclusion’. Named ‘Unity’, the train represents how the company celebrates diversity and embraces the individuality of colleagues and customers.
Tracey Barber, Senior Employee Experience Partner at LNER, said: “At LNER, we celebrate Pride all year round and foster and encourage individuality and an environment where our colleagues can bring their true selves to work, every day. It’s fabulous to see so many of our colleagues, and colleagues across the industry, getting into the spirit with our Pride celebrations in York and a joy to see LNER’s ‘Together’ train and TPE’s ‘Unity’ train side by side on the tracks as a show of solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Harriet Harbidge, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at TPE, said: “Seeing the ‘Unity’ and ‘Together’ trains side by side is a powerful symbol of our commitment to diversity and inclusion. At TPE, we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, and joining forces with LNER to celebrate Pride highlights the solidarity and support within the rail industry for the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Greg Stephenson, Chair and Managing Director at York Pride, said: “We are incredibly grateful to have LNER as a valued sponsor of York Pride. Their support plays a crucial role in helping us create an inclusive and welcoming environment for the LGBT+ community and allies. Their backing and support, enables us to host a celebration that highlights the importance of diversity and unity. We appreciate LNER’s commitment to supporting and uplifting the LGBT+ community.”
Photo credit: LNER
