Monday, July 4, 2011

Toronto celebrates diversity: Gay Pride 2011

Minutes before the Parade starts
More than a million people, many from overseas, joined the parade that marked the end of a week of celebrations in Toronto devoted to sexual diversity and acceptance.


Revellers were joined by scores of politicians who attended to show their support for the Gay and Lesbian Community in Toronto. Even David Miller, former Toronto major, and a great supporter of diversity blew kisses to a crowd that applauded him as he marched in the parade.

Marchers bore Ford's masks
Current Toronto Major Rob Ford was a no show. He decided to break the tradition of Toronto Majors opening the Gay Parade every year, and go instead to a cottage north of Toronto with his family. This has sparked a controversy that questions Mr. Ford’s support for the Gay and Lesbian community whose members have been very critical of his decision and have vowed to reconsider their vote in the next city elections.




The parade, however, was a complete success, as in the past. The procession of colourful floats packed with marchers bearing Canadian and Rainbow flags started at Church and Bloor Streets at 2:00 PM, and some four hours later ended at Church and Gerard Streets, after covering an important section of the downtown core.





This was the 31st edition of the Pride celebrations in Toronto, an event that brings millions of dollars to the local economy and is considered one of the biggest in the world.



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