“The festival is one of the best in Southern California and we take pride in it,” said Michael Noll, vice mayor of Signal Hill. The parade also gave an opportunity for local politicians to show their support. “There’s a place for everyone in the gay community, including bears,” he said. and Girth and Mirth of Southern California promoted acceptance – even within the gay community.īears – described as large, masculine, “cuddly” men with facial hair – can have a hard time finding a place in a world of shaved chests and toned bodies typical to the gay community, said Girth and Mirth president David Tilton. With a truck decorated like a giant fuzzy bear, Bears L.A. “Large corporations are learning that gay employees can bring a unique viewpoint to the table,” she said. Michelle Streeter, an avionics engineer and member of Boeing Employees Association of Gays, Lesbians and Friends, said large corporations are following a trend toward promoting tolerance in the workplace. “We provide a safe and open atmosphere where all people can worship God.”Įmployers like Boeing showed support for their gay employees with entries in the parade. “There’s been such a stigma against the gay community being involved in religion,” said Thompson, whose nondenominational church is about 85 percent gay. Gregory Thompson, Pastor at Christ Chapel of Long Beach, hopes his church’s float aids in community outreach. The parade included colorful floats, marching bands and drag queens in convertibles, but it was also an opportunity for non-profit organizations, businesses and local churches to show their support for the gay community. Long Beach resident Jared Taitano brings his children Helen, 7, and Hunter, 3, to the parade every year. Everyone out here is enjoying themselves.” “You see a little bit of everything,” said Ben Reid, who was named this year’s Mr. Stretching from Temple to Alamitos avenues, the parade drew a diverse crowd of gay and straight couples, families with young children and people of different races. A sea of rainbow flags and balloons brightened the overcast sky on Sunday, as more than 22,000 spectators gathered on sidewalks, balconies and front porches to watch the parade travel down Ocean Boulevard.
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