Men and women dressed in outfits ranging from corsets to dresses, boxers to thongs, celebrated Victoria’s 19th annual Pride Parade Sunday afternoon.
Political groups, corporate organizations and members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transsexual community all participated in the parade, dancing and singing to show their support for gay rights.
The Village People’s cult-classic song Y.M.C.A. blared from speakers as marchers danced their way along the parade route.
A natural-gas leak on Sunday morning at the intersection of Belleville and Government streets meant the route had to be diverted from the planned path around the legislature, but that failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the onlookers or participants.
The parade was diverted onto portions of Douglas Street, but finished at the scheduled stop at MacDonald Park on Oswego Street, site of the Pride Festival that followed. Roads were blocked off from Douglas Street down Belleville Street to Government and Humboldt streets at Wharf Street.
The new route caused problems for some motorists. One driver turned right onto Superior Street from Menzies Street, heading toward the front of the parade before police intercepted him and turned him around.
Tracy Howser and Greg Gilks stumbled upon the parade last year and were surprised by the spectacle.
This year, to get in the parade spirit, they dressed up: Howser in a red corset, with an umbrella to keep the sun out of her eyes, and Gilks in a brown kilt.
“I love the fact there’s all ages, from families and kids to older people, [and] everybody’s having a great time and you can be who you are,” Howser said.
Gilks said he enjoyed the Mardi Gras atmosphere, and said he enjoys Victoria’s only over-the-top celebration.
Others turned up to demonstrate their support for family members and friends.
“It’s great to see everyone be open and have a great time,” said Karen Brace, wearing knee-high rainbow socks to show her support for a family friend in the parade.
Parade organizers said about 85 groups participated in this year’s parade, up from last year.
But nine years of organizing the event has taken a toll on the Victoria Pride Society’s board of directors. Several, including president David Tillson, have served on the board for nine years and are wanting to see more volunteer input.
“It’s a lot of work,” Tillson said. “It’s so big now, the board is tired and overwhelmed. People get upset or have things to say, but they should help.”
Tillson said he was happy with this year’s parade and welcomes any help or suggestions for next year’s festivities.
