HSBC Bank Malta has announced that it will be the principal sponsor for Malta's Pride Week 2021, scheduled between the 10th and 19th of September.

In a statement, the Bank said that it has signed an exclusive sponsorship agreement with Allied Rainbow Communities (ARC), the official organiser of Malta’s Annual Pride Week, through which it will become the title partner of the event ‘Malta Pride in association with HSBC Malta’.

HSBC will also be the Main Stage and Pride March sponsor and will be the lead sponsor of all ARC-led events taking place during Pride Week in September.

Crawford Prentice, Head of Wealth and Personal Banking at HSBC Malta, said: “June is Pride Month so it’s a great time to be announcing this new agreement with ARC and to celebrate HSBC’s commitment to LGBT+ inclusivity.”

He said that this commitment is also reflected in HSBC’s efforts to ensure a safe and supportive workplace through various learning, development, networking and collaboration initiatives.

ARC Malta President Clayton Mercieca commented: “This support by HSBC gives the LGBTIQ community a renewed hope to rebuild and reunite once again in this difficult period.”

He continued, “We are thrilled to partner up with such a world-renowned bank, and whatever shape Pride takes this year we will ensure that this year’s message ‘You are included' is delivered.”

HSBC globally is committed to valuing difference and the bank's efforts to create an inclusive workplace have won awards in the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Hong Kong.

ARC, apart from being the official organiser of Malta’s Annual Pride Week, is also a voluntary organisation which aims to promote further growth in our communities and to create opportunities for giving back to society with particular focus on LGBT+ individuals and allies on the Maltese Islands.

In the video accompanying the announcement, Mr Prentice and Mr Mercieca talk about the new partnership.