Don't feel like reading the post? Go directly to the full album here!
I'm not really a parade person. The idea of having to stand there for potentially hours, waiting and waiting, smashed by dozens of other people in an attempt to see other people walk by you/wave at you from a float never appealed to me much (especially if it's in late November, sponsored by a popular department store, and features a ton of lip syncing).
But after the historic decision by The Supreme Court of the United States in Obergefell v. Hodges, I felt the NYC Pride Parade this year would probably feel even more joyous and charged with positive energy than ever. It was a celebration of identity and recognition of that identity's right to exist and be respected--a celebration of humanity. Just like the popular hashtag proclaims, #LoveWins. How could I not want to check it out? Also, Sir Ian McKellen was one of the Grand Marshals, so it was pretty cool to see him shaking spectators' hands, taking pictures, and giving hugs.
It was loud and colorful and fun and a privilege to be a part of this year, even if I was only a spectator.
Click here to see the full album of images from the NYC Pride Parade 2015!