The Ambassador opened the event by recalling the changes to Spanish society in recent decades. He also reviewed the main legal milestones from the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1978, until the entry into force of the anti-discrimination law in 2022. In 2005, Spain became the third country in the world to approve same-sex marriage.
The Embassy hosted a photography exhibition by the EFE Spanish News Agency, which covered the evolution of the LGTBIQ+ movement in Spain. From the first gatherings in Barcelona and Madrid at the end of the 70s, to the massive celebrations of recent years.
The event was co-organized by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom. Its president, Eduardo Barrachina, insisted on the institution's commitment to the LGTBIQ+ collective. The representative of Deutsche Bank, for his part, linked the bank's diversity with human and professional wealth. Lord Browne of Madingley, former CEO of British Petroleum, recounted his personal experience, and encouraged the audience to continue working towards a non-judgmental society.
BBC correspondent Adam Fleming introduced a panel discussion featuring Spanish businessperson Julio Bruno, Elaine Mc Laughlin from Pride Ally and Prasad Hattikudur from Pride Deutsche Bank. During the conversation, they underlined the progress made in the legal protection of the LGTBIQ+ population in Spain and the United Kingdom. They also warned about the setbacks in various parts of the world. The panel was closed by Lord Herbert of South Downs, the Prime Minister's special envoy for LGTBIQ+ affairs, who explained the role of the British Government in defending LGTBIQ+ rights, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
Finally, the Embassy hold a reception with politicians and members of the Spanish and British civil societies, which became a tribute to diversity and tolerance.