Though many members of the public view Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade to be extravagant and colorful street parades, the true reason for it is complex. Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) communities the world over have come under intense discrimination in recent history. The story in the United States is sadly no different. The Gay Pride movement celebrates the sexual orientation of the LGBT community and proclaims loudly to the whole world that it is not something to be ashamed of; rather it is something to be proud of!
In fact the word pride has been used purposefully in such parades as it is the antonym for shame, a feeling that many members of this community were subjected to. The Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade in New York and as well others all over the world affirms the fact their sexual orientation is inherent. The history of the Gay Pride movement can be traced back to the Stonewall Riots in 1969 when the New York Police conducted crackdowns on the LGBT community; the LGBT community rallied in response and organized a massive demonstration in the city.
Thus, the New York Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade have greater significance since it was first of its kind in the world. Since those early days of Pride, the movement has grown and gained public support. Today the annual Lesbian and Gay Parade draws in thousands of participants and even larger numbers of spectators who line the city streets to watch the colorful floats and dancers as they go by.
The Gay Pride celebrations in New York are usually held during the summer month of June. For travellers it may seem interesting to visit some of the satellite events that are organized in nearby districts such as Brooklyn and Queens in addition to the main parade in New York City.
New York City hotels close to downtown are the best place to stay during this period if one wishes to experience the true glamour of this day long event.
Hotels in Manhattan New York city such as the Millennium Broadway Hotel New York allow great access to some of the parties and festivals that organized in connection with the parade.
