Standing Together at London Pride 2026

By Farah Benis, ASIS UK: Chair

This weekend, myself, Anushka Gopeechund and Eren Bessim had the privilege of representing ASIS UK at London Pride as part of the Security Commonwealth.

For many people, Pride is a celebration. For others, it is an opportunity to reflect on how far society has come, while recognising there is still progress to be made. For those of us working in security, it is also an opportunity to reflect on our role in enabling people to gather safely, celebrate openly and exercise their rights with confidence.

It was a pleasure to walk alongside colleagues from across the Security Commonwealth, including the Safer Business Network, WiSE UK City Security Council, the Association of Security Consultants and the BSIA. Although we represent different organisations and disciplines, we share a common goal: creating safer communities through collaboration, professionalism and service.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of effective security practice. Security is often viewed through the lens of organisations working independently, but the reality is that our greatest successes are almost always achieved together. Whether responding to major incidents, sharing intelligence, improving professional standards or supporting public events, meaningful collaboration allows us to deliver outcomes that no single organisation could achieve alone.

The Security Commonwealth is an excellent example of that philosophy in action. It brings together professional associations and industry bodies that recognise the value of sharing expertise, learning from one another and presenting a united profession. We may have different memberships, different priorities and different perspectives, but we are united by our commitment to protecting people and supporting the communities we serve.

That sense of shared purpose was evident throughout London Pride.

Security at events of this scale extends far beyond barriers, stewarding and operational planning. It is about creating an environment where people feel safe enough to be themselves. It is about reassurance, visibility, professionalism and building trust. The most effective security is often the least visible; it quietly enables communities to come together, celebrate and participate without fear.

At the same time, Pride also gives us an opportunity to reflect on its history.

It is important that we remember Pride began as a protest. While today it is a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, its origins lie in people standing together to demand equality, dignity and fundamental rights. That history matters.

As security professionals, we often work where public safety and democratic freedoms meet. Peaceful protest, lawful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental to a democratic society. Our role is to help people exercise those rights safely while balancing the safety and rights of everyone affected.

That responsibility demands impartiality, proportionality and sound judgement. In an increasingly complex world, security professionals must consider not only physical risks, but also the social and ethical impact of their decisions. The trust placed in our profession is built on integrity, accountability and professionalism.

Events like Pride also remind us that representation matters within our own profession.

Security has made enormous progress in becoming more inclusive, but there is always more to do. A profession that reflects the diversity of the communities it protects is better equipped to understand different perspectives, build trust and develop solutions that work for everyone. Inclusion is not simply about who is represented; it strengthens decision-making, innovation and resilience across the profession.

One of the things I value most about ASIS is its commitment to collaboration. Through our members, volunteers and partners, we continue to share knowledge, challenge one another and raise standards across the profession.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the day possible, and to all of the organisations that continue to support the Security Commonwealth.

London Pride was a reminder that security is ultimately about people. Our role is to help create environments where communities can gather safely, exercise their freedoms and participate with confidence. I am proud that ASIS UK continues to play its part in that mission alongside colleagues from across our profession.