The season has begun; a time when gays unite, wave their vibrant rainbow flags, show their true colors, adorn themselves with glitter and risque/fabulous outfits, and gather for a party-filled weekend. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I'm talking about Gay P R I D E. This year, I was fortunate enough to attend both Pride Houston and Austin. Since I just happened to have that Friday and Saturday off from work, I decided to attend Austin's Pride. Having never been in town for it before, I was curious to see how the Live Music Capital handles such a vibrant culture. Although I've heard opinions here and there, I wanted to experience it for myself.
As the sun gently set behind a freshly built high-rise condominium (they make up the majority of Austin's skyline), my friend and I anxiously waited for the parade to make its way to the intersection of Fourth and Colorado. Because this was her first Pride parade, my friend had plenty of expectations. 9:00 pm; the grand marshals finally arrived.
Although the parade itself was a bit underwhelming, it was enjoyable for all who attended, and the support for our community in Austin seemed stronger than ever. No, I was not showered with condoms, lube, and beads. No, there weren't enormous floats covered in shirtless men being pulled by big rigs. Nonetheless, I still enjoyed the parade. Afterward, we made our way to Kiss and Fly, and the one dollar wells made everything even more alright (and so did the groups of beautiful men).
This past weekend was Pride Houston. An estimated 150,000 attendees made it out for the festivities. That number is almost unreal. Being the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston doesn't receive the attention it deserves for the diversity that exists in this metroplex. Texas might be one of the most blood red states in the country, but it is still one of the biggest. Apparently, Houston is become a destination city for the LGBT community. Surprise, surprise! As far as parades are concerned, Houston's was on a much larger scale than Austin's. Plus, open containers are allowed which allows for even more enjoyable evening. In my case, it was excessively enjoyable.As many of you may know, the gay community is starting to form opposing opinions on the concept of "Gay Pride". Pride weekend is as stereotypical as it gets when it comes to our community, and I will absolutely agree. No, we aren't shirtless everywhere we go, we don't wear body glitter, and we don't flaunt our rainbow clothing daily. The fact that corporations support these festivities brings about tension as well. In addition to supporting their LGBT employees, companies are trying to gain more customers. It is a fact. With all the being said, Pride events still prove how much support there is for our community and our desire to live normal lives within such a constrictive society. Personally, I don't let such things define me as a person. Sexuality is only small part of a person's being. Also, be honest...stereotypes have to come from somewhere. In my opinion, I may not appreciate the all of the visuals used to celebrate Pride, but it is still a celebration worthy of your attention.
