The Voice - Student Newspaper

Pride parade has extra special meaning to gay community this year

By Rogelio Macias
Reporter, The VOICE

The weekend of April 18th and 19th, Steele Indian School Park on Indian School rd. and 3rd st. was transformed from a park into a beacon to the Phoenix community that the LGBT population is proud and never returning to the closet.

June 28th, through 30th, 1969, after repeated persecution by the New York City police, the clientele of the Stonewall Bar, defied the unjustified raids by taking to the streets in demand of their civil liberties and recognition.

The crowd numbered over two thousand, and in this act of integrity and self assertion, the modern Lesbian and Gay Rights Movement were born. Pride Committees commemorate the birth of the gay and lesbian rights movement each year across the country; they host rallies, parades, marches and festivals.

In its 29th year Phoenix Pride had elements of fun for all who attended, such as, a parade, live entertainment, over 200 vendors, art expos, and even a children's play area.

Phoenix Pride fulfilled every ones expectations, headliners like singer Deborah Cox closed the evening's events on Saturday, and topped it off with having Tempe-based band The Gin Blossoms close on Sunday night.

This two-day event had a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere; no matter what gender or sexual orientation all communities can enjoy these festivities.

Please send comments to rmacias@gccvoice.com