Not a drop of rain fell on Victoria, but the rainbow shone brighter than ever at this year’s Pride Parade on the blissful, sunny morning of July 6.
Nearly 70,000 spectators packed the streets, with more than 140 entries and hundreds of proud marchers parading along the 2.4-kilometre route.
Hosted by the Victoria Pride Society, the event kicked off just after 11 a.m. at Pandora Avenue and Government Street, then meandered through downtown before wrapping up at MacDonald Park in James Bay.
Among the many people who attended, the event held special significance for Isidora Munoz and Camila Oyarzo, a couple from Chile.
“We are here because we came from a very homophobic place, so we enjoy these events,” said Munoz. “I cannot say I'm married to a woman; it's very difficult. But here, we are accepted.
“It's so beautiful to see so many people show their support and their own colours. That, for us, is amazing.”
For the couple, who have been in Canada for over a year, this was their second Pride parade. While they acknowledge incredible strides have been made for gay rights in recent decades, they also recognize there’s still more work to be done.
“The world needs more empathy and love,” said Munoz. “We are incredibly marvellous and we should love without caring about someone’s orientation.”
As the parade was about to begin, the couple held each other close and reiterated the importance of understanding and accepting one another despite our differences.
“It's amazing to see all the people who support you,” said Munoz. “It feels like I'm not a mistake. I think it's very important to continue celebrating Pride, and everyone has to be part of this.”
