Equality March and PRIDE Fest

Jun 26, 2012 by SheVoices

This weekend was the Baton Rouge Equality March and PRIDE Fest. It was a fairly busy weekend for me, and I wasn’t able to attend either event for the entire time, but I did go for a bit and take pictures while I was there. Here are the best of those pictures.

: One of the speakers talking to everyone assembled on the Capitol Steps.

: At one point the breeze picked up and I was able to get this really cool picture of this rainbow flag waving.

: When I figured out what this sign actually said from far away, I had to go ask them if I could take a picture. The sign is both hilarious, and also true on a deeper level.

: This sign speaks for itself.

: It was really cool to see all the kids at the Equality March, and also at the PRIDE Fest event at the LSU Student Union. Its awesome to know that there are families who are raising their children to be accepting and proud of the LGBT community in our state.

: The Pocket Aces Brass Band was one of the bands that provided entertainment.

: The Krewe of Divas performed towards the end of the event. I had to leave before all of them had performed, and I was rather disappointed because the Divas were the coolest subject I have ever photographed. I had a lot of fun taking these pictures.

: This couple started slow-dancing during one of the Divas slower performances. It was adorable.

: Several organizations came out with banners in support of marriage equality and legal protections for LGBT citizens of Louisiana

: These two were so adorable, and really embodied the spirit of fun that everyone had at the march.

: I felt like this sign embodies the feelings of straight allies all over Louisiana

Despite not being there for the entirety of both events, I was really glad I went for the time that I did. It was a really awesome day, and everyone had a really positive attitude. There was a sense of community that only seemed to get stronger as the day went on. However, it was also a reminder that, as much fun as we may have on a Saturday afternoon, on Monday there are thousands of people across Louisiana who will return to workplaces where they could be fired for their sexuality or gender identity. There are thousands who cannot marry the person they love, or adopt the children that they are raising. We still have a lot of work to do to make sure that everyone in our state has the same rights and protections under the law. Please consider joining one of the LGBT advocacy groups such as Forum For Equality, or Capital City Alliance, and joining the fight to make a better Louisiana for everyone who lives here.