Dear gentle reader … (Netflix, please don’t sue me). Happy Pride!
if you’ve been following me for a while on my socials, you know I’ve been privileged to travel and experience Pride celebrations all over Canada and the US. This being pride month, I want to share my latest visit to Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA, for, you guessed it, Philly Pride.
This is a trip I won’t soon forget. Steeped in rich history and vibrant inclusivity, Philadelphia is a city known since the beginning of the United States, to embrace travellers from all walks of life. It proudly stands as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, with its renowned Gayborhood and thriving queer scene.
This year’s Philly Pride was particularly special, as it marked the 52nd anniversary of Philadelphia’s first Gay Pride Parade. The 2024 Pride March and Festival were all about celebrating joy, community, and progress under the inspiring theme: “Be You.”
The festivities kicked off with a spirited march that began at 6th and Walnut streets and wound its way into the heart of the Gayborhood. This march paid homage to the 1960s Reminder Day demonstrations, starting with speeches and a ceremonial unfurling of a breathtaking 400-foot-long rainbow flag — the largest in Philadelphia’s history. The atmosphere was electric as passionate community leaders spoke about the struggles and needs of the LGBTQ+ community in Philly.
Soon we started marching, and the mood changed from one of protest to one of celebration; filled with people from all colours and ages. “Mom” type allies held signs offering free “mom hugs” and a sea of bright colours engulfed us as we continued to march. The large Pride Flag was impressive; being carried by hundreds of people from all walks of life, children running inside the flag and laughing. It was a beautiful metaphor for what this community really is.
I was humbled and honoured to walk with them.
As the march concluded, the Pride Festival sprang to life in the Gayborhood, centred around 13th and Locust streets. The streets buzzed with energy as over 200 attractions filled the area, featuring a fantastic mix of artists, entertainers, food trucks, local bars, community organizations, and vendors. Live performances on multiple outdoor stages kept the crowd entertained all day long.
We capped the night off with a final performance by none other than Saphirra Cristal. Saphirra is an American drag performer who has captivated the hearts of Philadelphia and the world with her talent, grace, and beauty. As the first performer to represent Philadelphia on season 16 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Saphirra made history. I do love it when the crowd cheers for their local queens with the same enthusiasm as a pop star. And why shouldn’t they, they do shine brightly.
Philadelphia’s Pride event beautifully showcased the city’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. It was a powerful reminder of how far they’ve come as a community and a celebration of the diverse, vibrant spirit that makes Philly Pride so special.
Mary in Vancity 