June is Pride Month in the UK, during which we celebrate, reflect and stand in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s also an opportunity for the automotive sector to show its support for equality, diversity and inclusion, in a meaningful way.
While Pride brings happiness, colour and celebration, it also marks an ongoing struggle for equal rights, safety and representation in society and in the workplace. At the IMI, we believe the automotive sector should be a safe, supportive and empowering space for everyone, regardless of sexuality or gender identity.
To mark Pride Month, we’re spotlighting five of the top LGBTQIA+ organisations and resources making a difference in automotive today. Whether you’re a professional, apprentice, employer or ally, these networks offer vital support, visibility and community.
Driving Pride
The LGBTQIA+ Network for Automotive Professionals - drivingpride.org
Driving Pride is a UK-based organisation working to improve LGBTQIA+ inclusion across the automotive sector. It provides a professional network, resources for inclusive best practice, and a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Whether you're looking for peer support or practical ways to create a more inclusive workplace, Driving Pride is a brilliant place to start.
Racing Pride
Championing LGBTQIA+ Visibility in Motorsport - @racingpridehq on Instagram
Founded in 2019, Racing Pride is a movement dedicated to promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion across motorsport – from drivers and engineers to fans and sponsors. With a growing community of ambassadors and allies, Racing Pride brings visibility and representation to an area of automotive often seen as less inclusive, helping to challenge stereotypes and drive cultural change in racing.
GCCG – Gay Classic Car Group
Classic Car Enthusiasts United by Passion and Pride - gccg.org.uk
The Gay Classic Car Group (GCCG) is one of the largest and oldest LGBTQIA+ motoring clubs in the UK. Since 1988, the group has welcomed classic car enthusiasts from all backgrounds, holding regular events, drives and meetups. With over 1,000 members, GCCG combines automotive passion with community spirit, offering a space where everyone feels welcome.
There’s More to Motor
Driving Inclusion Across the Automotive Sector – moretomotor.org.uk
The Institute of the Motor Industry’s There’s More to Motor campaign is challenging outdated perceptions of the automotive sector and shining a light on the people and stories that make it truly diverse. From technicians and apprentices to business owners and innovators, the campaign celebrates those breaking barriers and proving that automotive is a place for everyone – regardless of gender, sexuality, background or identity. Through real voices and powerful storytelling, the IMI is helping to build a more inclusive, welcoming future for the industry.
The Peter Tatchell Foundation
Fighting for Global LGBTQIA+ Rights - petertatchellfoundation.org
Although not automotive-specific, this foundation plays a key role in the history of Pride and LGBTQIA+ activism. Peter Tatchell, who helped organise the first UK Pride in 1972, continues to be a leading voice in human rights. The foundation provides vital education, campaigns for equality, and amplifies voices from marginalised communities worldwide – a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how far we still have to go.
Pride in the Automotive Industry
At the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), we are committed to championing diversity, equality, and inclusion in everything we do. From apprentices and educators to senior leaders and technicians, we believe the automotive sector should be a place where everyone feels seen, supported, and able to thrive.
Pride Month is a time to celebrate, yes – but it’s also a time to listen, learn and act, so we can support our LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year. Whether you're part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally, these organisations offer the tools, insights and connections to help you build a better, more inclusive sector.
