Last Sunday marked the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Despite having excessive rain over the last few weeks, hundreds of thousands of people turned out for the parade in New York City. The weather turned out just fine, it wasn’t extremely hot, but the sun peeked its sleepy head out a couple of times during the day for the event. It’s one of the largest celebrations in the world with people of every race, creed and socio-economic background represented.

The parade began on 52nd Street in midtown Manhattan and ended at Christopher Street in the West Village. At the beginning, long strings of colored balloons created a rainbow effect down the avenue, and imparted a colorful boost of energy and inspiration. There were marchers dressed in extravagant costumes and plenty of New Yorkers posing for the camera and dancing around.

Festive music blasted from floats all along the parade route, including many songs by Michael Jackson in remembrance of his legacy. Lady Gaga, Janet Jackson and other dance divas including Donna Summer, Gloria Gayner and Madonna were all heard. There was even some church music being sung by progressive religious groups.

Celebrities and politicians such as Michael Urie (from Ugly Betty), Charles Schumer, Carolyn Malony, Michael Bloomberg and Governor Patterson showed their support while reminding the public that they were up for re-election. As always, the parade was full of inspiration, love, and hope for the future.