From Ashford Avenue in San Juan thousands of rainbow flags were seen in a walk of pride and freedom. The street was bathed in vibrant colors and a contagious energy of joy. Music echoed from every corner and greetings were always welcome. Throughout the entire walk through San Juan, love, pride and support was felt in solidarity with the entire LGBTQIA+ community.
There were thousands of people from different organizations, businesses, companies and political agents who came out in solidarity and support of the event. I was part of the float of the organization CABE (Comité Amplio por la Búsqueda de Equidad), where I met people who fight for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in various political and social forums. An unforgettable moment in my experience at the parade was hearing the words of Norma del Rio, who is a friend of the organization, addressed to us (my partner and I). She expressed her joy at seeing such young people being free to express themselves and love each other. Norma also shared how, at our age, it was not so easy for her to be openly lesbian on our island.
Pride in Puerto Rico has been celebrated since 1990 and has been a space of "visibility and pride for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized communities in Puerto Rico". 34 years of a parade where the joy of people, the pride of an entire community, the resistance to a prejudiced society and a wide range of colors representing everyone abound.
Although the rain was present before the start of the walk, it did not stop our purpose or dampen our enthusiasm. Seeing everyone's happiness was a great experience and made my first Pride participation incredible. Being part of such a wonderful event filled me with a lot of satisfaction. To see the love in the air and the pride that emanated from everyone present is a clear example of how resilient we are as a community. I invite you all to be part of these events in future years because I am sure you will not regret it.
Comments