Grace ClarkeFor York Pride 2012 is a year of firsts. This is the first year there will be a parade leading through the city from the Minster to the racecourse (where the celebrations will begin). But most importantly this year there will be a rainbow flag flying above Mansion House.
The initial bid to fly the flag, and support marriage equality, was met with some controversy from Tory councillor Chris Steward. Steward was quick to point out that it wasn’t marriage equality he was against. It was, quite simply, the flying of any flags above the mansion house. Needless to say the vote was a landslide, with thirty six voting against the amendment to ban the flag, with a mere nine in favour and one abstention.
York Pride will take place on 21 July, with the parade beginning at 12.00 outside the Minster and ending up on the racecourse where the fun will continue. A number of acts have been announced including various drag queens, performances by Eurovision finalists Scooch, and everyone’s favourite X Factor runner up; Liverpudlian Craig Colton. Wristbands for the event, which entitle you to various discounts across the city during Pride week are available from Henry J Beans, El Piano, The Yorkshire Hussar, and OUTrageous.
This years York pride looks like it’s going to be the biggest year yet. The flying of the flag is excellent year and brings us yet another step closer to marriage equality. Dan Sidley, the chair of York Pride, suggests that even in this day and age people are scared to reveal their sexuality to friends and family for fear of rejection. The flying of the rainbow flag shows a great level of support from our historic city. Let us know what you think of the event below…
