Royal Mail reveal Pride stamps

The stamps, specially commissioned by Royal Mail, were art directed by NB Studio and illustrated by award-winning artist Sofie Birkin. Journalist and author Amelia Abraham was also consulted for the stamp issue as was Royal Mail’s internal LGBT & Friends Network.

Beginning in 1972, the stamps tell a story of Pride over time.

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They depict the first ‘Gay Pride rally’ and early Pride events where participants shouted slogans such as, ‘Gay is fun! Gay is proud! Gay is beautiful!’, to the more recent update on the traditional rainbow flag, its design encompassing the flags of trans and intersex people, while also referencing the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people of colour.

David Gold, Director External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail said:

'The vibrant, colourful Pride events that take place in towns and cities across the UK today trace their origins to a small number of people who marched through central London half a century ago to raise awareness of discrimination and inequality. There have been huge changes in laws and social attitudes, but Pride events continue to play a key role in raising awareness of discrimination, as well as celebrating diversity and individualism.’

Alan Dye, Creative Director at and owner of NB Studio, added:

‘It was a real honour to be asked to design this iconic series for The Royal Mail, as they represent such an important part of British LGBTQ+ history. It was an absolute joy to work with Sofie Birkin who’s work we’ve admired for some time. Watching these beautiful illustrations come to life you could easily imagine yourself as part of the March Through Time.’