WINNIPEG — The streets of downtown Winnipeg were filled with thousands of people this morning, walking in celebration of 30 years of pride in the city.
From the steps of the Legislature, the annual Pride Parade made its way down Memorial Boulevard to Portage Avenue, with bright colours, loud music, and decorative floats.
Sunday marks 30 years since the first Pride Winnipeg festival in the city.
Despite the celebratory mood of the day, many remembered how different things were when the parade first happened.
“They made comments, people got beaten up, murdered for it, just discriminated against even in the work places,” said James Nemeth, who marched in the parade.
Now, he said, things are different but there’s still a long way to go.
“It’s just wonderful to be able to be who you are, and be out,” he said.
On hand to celebrate was Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba Janice Filmon and Mayor Brian Bowman.
“It’s an important symbol and message to our community, to our friends and to our neighbours,” said Bowman of the parade.
Premier Brian Pallister was not in attendance, and posted a video to Twitter shortly before the parade started.
Portions of Memorial Boulevard, Portage Avenue and Main Street will be closed to traffic throughout the morning.
The parade wraps up at The Forks.