GEORGE NEWS - The rain could not dampen the celebratory spirit of participants in the Pride Parade through York Street on Wednesday afternoon, 15 June.
According to one of the organisers, Benelee Wonderlik of SHE (Social, Health and Empowerment Feminist Collective of Transgender Women of Africa), they were overwhelmed by the amount of support they received.
"We were afraid that the weather would discourage participation, but our expectations were exceeded. The parade was very successful and participants thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
"We wanted to give people the opportunity to express themselves in a safe environment where there is acceptance and love, and we managed to do just that. It was wonderful how people from a variety of backgrounds came together for a shared purpose. The presence of some George councillors also made a big difference."
There were also stakeholders from other towns in the Garden Route. They walked from Checkers at York Street Boulevard to Shenanigans Pub where some of the participants stayed to socialise.
The event, which was supported by George Municipality, was organised by SHE in collaboration with Jonathan Fortuin, Garden Route sector leader of the LGBTIQA++.
"We wanted to raise awareness in the local community of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) social and self-acceptance, their achievements, legal rights, and pride," said Wonderlik.
Supporting the Pride Parade in York Street, from left: George Cllr Brendon Adams, Miss Foxi Brown, Lady Jojo, George Clr Theresa Jeyi and Deputy Mayor Raybin Fiegland.
Pride Parade participants in front of Shenanigans where the walk ended.
The parade provided an opportunity for self-expression.
Miss Foxi Brown and Lady Jojo having a ball.
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