The Ryan Thomas Collection

In a few days time, Americans will celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence that instilled the values of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness on a new nation. These are innate rights that each citizen carries day in and day out. These are the rights at very heart of San Francisco’s LGBT Pride celebration over the weekend past.

 With almost a million people flocking to celebrate diversity, equality and freedom, SF Pride 2008 sported its largest crowd since its onset 38 years ago. The event is an important and vital part in maintaining a strong sense of community. Some may contend that some of the visuals depicted hurt the fight for equal rights, as extravagant costumes and less than mainstream ideas are brought before the public. However, this imagery reminds us that Pride is also a celebration of where the movement has come and where the movement is going.

The festive atmosphere intermixes with the serious issues to be had and reminds us that diversity is a part of life that must be celebrated. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are represented in the rich costumes and less than mainstream depictions of people shown. It is important to celebrate the idea that, like the hegemonic powers in society, the LGBT community consists of a plethora of personalities.

Pride celebrations are a major part of the movement for equality and a yearly reminder of the continued battle the LGBT community has in this country. As the mission statement of the SF Pride Committee states, Pride is to “educate the World, comemorate our heritage, celebrate our culture, and liberate our people.”

Upcoming Pride celebrations around the world:

http://www.gaycityusa.com/pride.htm

 (Photos provided by The Ryan Thomas Collection. All rights reserved.)

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