Pic (c) JJWaller.com 

Yes, I was a 'sailor' (right) at last year's Pride.

Have fun, be safe and.... yes, celebrate a political day.

Why am I saying that?

Yes, of course, Pride's about having a great time but as many activists explain, it's much deeper than this.

This year's really well-chosen theme is ‘Pride and (no) Prejudice'.

That's an incredibly important and appropriate message because we shouldn't forget the politics, the struggles, and how far equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) communities has come over the last few years.

Much of this has been as a result of work by progressive legislators in the European Parliament, in which I served for 11 years until my election as a Westminster MP this year.

We shouldn't forget who the heroes have been in the struggles for LGBT equality here and around the world - and how much more there is still to do.

Peter Tatchell, one of our country's great human rights campaigners for LGBT equality, and for so many other vital human rights issues, hopes to be marching on the Parade with the Green Party LGBT group.

I salute Peter and so many other LGBT activists for what they have done to help make our country fairer and more open to LGBT communities.

As an MP and Green Party leader, I've spoken out against prejudice and will continue to campaign for LGBT equality just as I do for other communities who face discrimination or powerful opponents standing in the way of equality.

While progress has been made, there are still some important goals we need to achieve.

For example (just a selection): LGBT people still don't have protection from harassment despite the previous Government's Equality Act.

The ban on gay and bi men donating blood to the National Blood Service continues.

There has been a sharp increase in violence on the LGBT communities.

People who identify as trans are still on the Psychiatric Disorder Register.

While same sex couples are still barred from marriage.

So there's a lot of work to do.

As the MP representing one of the largest LGBT populations in the UK, I pledge to keep up the fight until we've secured these reforms.

Unfortunately, because of family commitments, I can't be at Pride this year. 

If you're going, enjoy it, celebrate it and reflect how far we've come.

Also remember LGBT activists around the world, some of whom face persecution and even risk their lives for advancing human rights.

Have a great weekend.

Celebrate - and remember as well.