At Seattle’s Gay Pride Parade on Sunday June 26, tens of thousands of people gathered the streets to celebrate what could be an interesting breakthrough to a world full of diversity. KOMO Staff says, “Supporters hope it marks a new chapter in the equal rights movement.”
Andrea Torres, a first-year Bellevue College student, was a volunteer for the Human Rights Campaign booth at the parade. “I saw people of all ages, gay and straight couples with their children, I think it’s beautiful for all of us to stand together for a cause. This year’s theme was “Be you. Be Proud. Express yourself!”
People were waving flags and banners, and proudly cheering throughout the crowd raising awareness for the gay community. There were some participants who rode motorcycles in support during this parade, as well. Torres says “[…] I saw angels with rainbow wings on roller skates, dancers of all kinds and people banging on drums. I got to walk around and talk to people from other organizations; many traveled a long way just to be a part of the parade. My favorite was the recycling queers float. There were people with costumes made entirely out of recycled materials!”
A rainbow-colored flag was raised at the top of the Space Needle as part of a challenge to raise $50,000 in charity before pride weekend. KOMO news announced that all money raised will go to benefit all local charities.
Torres thinks the parade was quite a success. “I think the pride parade is a step in the right direction in the human rights movement. I hope that soon many other states follow in New York’s footsteps and legalize same-sex marriage.”
Hollywood figures that we all know and love are in definite support of passing a law that legalizes gay marriages. Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Neil Patrick Harris, Ellen Degeneres, Rosie O’Donnell, and many more tweeted about their appreciation and happiness for what could be the start of something new and inspiring.
Lady Gaga – The revolution is ours to fight for love, justice+equality. Rejoice NY, and propose. We did it!!!
Rosie O’Donnell – happy gays r here again!!!!! #equalitymattersNY
Neil Patrick Harris – It PASSED! Marriage equality in NY!! Yes!! Progress!! Thank you everyone who worked so hard on this!! A historic night!
Ellen Degeneres – I’m thrilled about the news from NY. Marriage equality! Every day we get a little closer. What an amazing feeling.
Katy Perry – NEW YORK! I ♥ U! You’re OFFICIALLY the coolest place on the planet! #PRIDE #EQUALITYFORALL! #CELEBRATE!
Seattle had even more of a reason to celebrate this past weekend. First it was New York, and next it might just be Washington. The Seattle Mayor, Mike McGinn, is in support of legalizing gay marriages. He showed up to the parade wearing an “I [Heart] NY” shirt, gathered a large crowd at Westlake Park and spoke out to his community. “Washington State will be next! Washington State will be next!” He shouted.