This Pride, remember the queer pioneers who fought for our freedoms

The civil rights I enjoy as I turn 40 were not guaranteed when I was born, writes Oliver Hermanus

My reflections reminded me that I am the product of a freedom that is not universal (PA Archive)

I experienced my first proper London Pride last year. I got swept up in the thrum of Soho streets, packed with revellers, swaying from bar to bar, drink in hand.

I danced the night away in a mess of glitter and gay pop anthems. It was freeing, it was easy and familiar. Perhaps so much so that I might easily have believed that Pride was now simply an annual event that meant little more than that – a good night out, being free.

I recently turned 40 and found myself reflecting on my various privileges. It felt like the right time to take stock. I’m a coloured (google it) South African filmmaker, born during apartheid, gay and living in London.