Looking back through the history of our country, numerous instances of social wrongdoings and oppression can be listed. From the Civil Rights Movement to the fight for women’s equality, the U.S. has endured battles, protests and upheavals, all in the fight for change. Change has proven slow and difficult throughout history, no matter the issue. Keeping all this in mind, it only seems appropriate that when new progressions are made to a movement, celebration is duly earned.
This summer, the number of states recognizing same-sex marriage has jumped to 19, making this year’s annual New York City Pride March, held June 29, much more of a cause for excitement. From gigantic rainbow floats to the presence of influential movement leaders like “Orange is the New Black” star Laverne Cox, the day drew crowds to celebrate the nation’s progress.
With thousands of onlookers cheering from the sidelines, everyone seemed comfortable and free to show off their personal expression. March and audience members alike openly showed their support with rainbow flags and over-the-top ensembles. No matter one’s sexual orientation, the march was inviting for all in attendance.
Flyers advocating same-sex inequality passed around the event strongly suggested too much celebration would be premature. Appeals for same-sex marriage and adoption equality, as well as workplace acceptance were plentiful. These pamphlets emphasized that even supporters may be unaware of all that is still to be done. Some uninformed observers were perplexed upon seeing this degree of inequality still present in the United States.
To advocate their cause, the gay community enlisted massive amounts of sponsors. The New York City Fire and Police Departments, as well as major corporations like Coke and NBC showed their support by handing out gifts. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo was also in attendance. With so many established conglomerates advocating the movement, the community was in high spirits, yet movement leaders were adamant that more needed to be done.
One may see the New York governor’s presence and support of this day as progress, yet what about the others? For each sponsor in attendance, there are thousands more that are still wary of this cause, which goes to show that this Pride March was just one stop on the campaign trail for equality.