Overarching message « Love is love » at Regina Pride Parade

The Queen City Pride Parade was in full swing Saturday on 15th Avenue and Lorne Street.

Cheerful crowds kicked off the return of the parade as hundreds gathered after a two-year pandemic hiatus.

« Love is love » was the dominant message of the day as Queen City Pride held its annual Pride Parade.

Among the marchers was Queen City Pride board member Mirtha Rivera, who said the parade took months of planning but she is happy as it is something to look forward to all the year.

« My heart is full of happiness because I was one of the original members of the first parade. We were only in our 20s and we covered our faces and we didn’t have a license. allowed. We weren’t legal. And now you can see we have everyone’s support. The community is big and this youth, I think it’s the future. And they’re so free, so happy And I’m happy for them, I’m with them.

She said the first Pride Parade in Regina took place in 1989 and participants marched because they didn’t want to keep hiding their relationships and love. They weren’t supposed to be on the streets but ended up marching towards the Legislative Assembly.

“I never thought I would see this, but I wanted to see it. So it’s like a dream come true for me. This. Seeing all of this happen and being so free,” Rivera said.

The parade is just one part of the 10-day Queen City Pride Festival which recognizes Regina’s gender and sexually diverse communities.

Over 80 colorful floats made their way to the ledge, which surpassed the number in May 2019 when they had around 70 floats.

At this year’s parade, you couldn’t help but notice a large contingent of young people who showed their support.

Flo Mingo of Lulu’s Lodge, who was also marching, said, “I’m extremely excited. It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to get together and celebrate. To have everyone here and to see all of our allies and friends joining us is such a wonderful experience.

“When I was young, I didn’t see this kind of thing. So for our young people to see the number of people supporting them. They are allowed to be exactly who they want to be. This is extremely important for someone growing up.

The parade was also attended by Regina Rosemont MP Trent Wotherspoon.

“I’m here as an ally and I’m here to make it very clear that love is love and all Saskatchewan people are loved. We know that equality is not in place everywhere in Saskatchewan for many. And we know that many people endure harassment, abuse, bullying and hatred and that’s why we have to keep marching, keep fighting for progress and for equality.

He added that it is a beautiful thing to see hundreds of people in the streets and young people being part of it. He was there with his eight-year-old son, William.

The party is expected to continue until 11 p.m.