Columbus Proud

This weekend was the start of the Capa Summer Movie Series and we had a great time watching The Wizard of Oz on the big screen at the Ohio Theater. For once I watched it from start to finish and didn't become immediately terrified. My cousin's husband Bill stayed with us for the weekend and while we only had some brief chats in the evenings, it was great to see him and have a chance to visit.

It was also the 30th Annual Columbus Pride Festival and we marched with the Broad Street United Methodist Church in the parade on Saturday. Last year they estimated that over 200,000 people attended and they expected to have more this year. It seemed there were more protesters this year than last but not as many as the first year I marched. Along the parade route it seemed there were more people than any other year - so perhaps this was the largest Pride in Columbus!

Pride 2007When I was first asked to march in the parade four years ago, I agreed without really knowing what it was we were doing. My friend Roy offered to let me help carry the church's banner and I was sold. I didn't know what to expect and was completely taken aback by the entire experience. I was appalled, offended and scared of the protesters who shouted hateful things and carried vicious signs. I was grateful for the women on motorcycles who revved their engines in front of them and helped shield the parade marchers and spectators. I was excited to see friends along the route and a little pleased with myself to carry that banner. My intentions weren't the most noble that first year, but it made such an impression on me. Ignorance is funny until it becomes personal and discrimination difficult to ignore when it's directed at the people you love. I'll never forget that first parade and will support the Pride movement whenever possible. 

This year it was exciting to march with 7 of our friends along with other church members. I was especially proud of Jeff for being the only fella with a bunch of chatty women who were hyped up by an audience of thousands :) 

As my friend Farrah wrote in her blog..."We march for our many friends who have to hide their lifestyle and are afraid to march in public for fear of losing their jobs, friends and families. We march in their place to show that we love them and want to educate the world to change its prejudices."

Ready for step-off!

My best Pride Pal!

Up the hill towards the Arena District

Rounding the bend at Buttles

Huge crowds in the Short North