London celebrated its annual Pride Parade with giant floats, motorbike formations, and martial arts demonstrations that were accompanied by thumping pop tunes. More than 32,000 people from 500 LGBTQ+ community groups and businesses walked the colourful procession along central London’s streets, from Hyde Park to Trafalgar Square passing crowds filled with attendees cheering them on as a giant rainbow Pride flag was carried. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan was at the head of the procession, leading alongside his wife Saadiya Khan.
BBC London reporter Gopal Virdee, who was present at the parade, witnessed people wearing “the most colourful and creative costumes”, while the parade floats blasted out music in “what seems like a battle of which float can play the loudest”. Attendees in the colourful procession included all kinds of outfits ranging from carnival costumes to gym gear and decorated floats with all types of themes, including a peacock with rainbow feathers.
Many LGBTQ+ groups and businesses attended the Parade, including the lesbian motorcycle club Sapphic Riders, who attended for “visibility” and inclusivity. Wilson, from the LGBTQIA+ basketball club, London Knights, who drove their mobile mini basketball court, insisted that everybody should be able to play their favorite sport in an environment that feels safe, comfortable, and welcome.
In contrast to the colorful floats that passed through the city’s streets, the 50-person group Queers for Palestine marched underneath posters accusing Israel of genocide while chanting “there is no pride in genocide”. They condemned the practice of “pinkwashing”, the accusation that Israel takes a progressive stance towards gay rights as a means of enhancing its international reputation. The Israeli embassy has been contacted for a response.
Transport for London advised that there might be disruption and Tube station closures, asking the parade’s participants to arrive at Bond Street, Hyde Park Corner, or Marble Arch stations. Meanwhile, customers who wish to attend the events at Trafalgar Square or in Soho were advised to go to Bond Street, Charing Cross, Embankment, Tottenham Court Road, Victoria, or Westminster stations. The parade started at Hyde Park at midday and finished at Trafalgar Square, where live music, speeches, and performances were held, and there were other stages around the city, including Soho Square, Leicester Square, and Victoria Embankment Gardens
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