WINNIPEG — Ten days of Winnipeg’s Pride Festival came to an end on Sunday’s Pride Day with the parade.
Thousands flocked to the streets of downtown Winnipeg to take part, share their stories, and support Manitobans all in the name of this year’s them of being authentic.
The 29th annual Pride Parade started at the Manitoba Legislative Building with a different DJ and dance party on almost every float.
Supporters said they couldn’t imagine being anywhere else on Pride Day. Explaining how important they think it is to do whatever it takes to make everyone feel included and free to be who they want to be.
Pam Mackay and Erin Bowie have been together for 14 years and came down from Brandon for the parade. Mackay said when she first attended the parade she remembered being too afraid to take part and she chose to stay on the sidelines instead. Now, in 2016 and she said she’s come a long way. This year partaking in the parade itself with friends.
“Freedom. Like it’s freedom. Which is very very different than what we used to feel for sure. We’re lucky that we live in Canada too. Not to say Canada is perfect, but I’m grateful I’m here,” said Mackay.
Freedom for many who have had to live in hiding and freedom for everyone to just be authentic. That’s what organizers said was the goal for this year’s Pride Festival.
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