Seattle Pride 2019
I love shooting photos throughout Pride month. My intention was to be a bit more methodical this year, trying for a few images from the events throughout the month. I made it to several events with my camera, but most of my photos are from the marches at the end.
This year marked the 50th anniversary of Stonewall. I realized pretty quickly that I knew embarrassingly little about what happened there 50 years ago. I still have a lot of reading to do, but I’m glad I have a better appreciation for the saying “the first Pride was a riot”. I interpret that statement both literally and figuratively – a subtle reminder to the corporations and party-goers.
I’ll keep this short with a few highlights and then get to the photos (slideshow at the end).
I appreciated the speakers discussing Stonewall and explaining very clearly that despite a lot of progress, the United States is not all that far removed from 50 years ago. The LGBTQ community has a lot of valid concerns. That someone would stand across from the parade/festival area wearing a Burn Homo Burn shirt is about all the proof one needs of that (Note: I have a photo of the person wearing the shirt, not sure I’ll post it. But if anyone says I’m lying, well…)
I’m glad that everyone seems to have had a safe Pride. I know that people were concerned about security this year because of the anti-LGBTQ marches (labeled as other things, I’m sure).
I liked getting to see many of my friends in the service industry in Capitol Hill – they go to great lengths to create fun, safe environments. They’re all incredibly exhausted right now. Tip and treat them well this week (and always).
Finally, I’m glad I saw Big Freedia’s show. Thanks for the tip Anjali.