LA Pride Parade and block party take over the streets of Hollywood – NBC Los Angeles

The LA Pride Parade and Block Party took to the streets of Hollywood on Sunday, capping a two-day celebration of Pride Month.

Parade director Mariela Spirelli told the Los Angeles Times that about 5,000 people marched this year, including Maliyah Heaven Espinoza. The 32-year-old trans woman and human resources business partner, who was named Ms. LA Pride several weeks ago, joined crowds of protesters and revelers in Hollywood on Sunday for the 54th annual LA Pride Parade, the one of the oldest celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture in the United States

Espinoza said Karina Kendrick, her friend dressed in angelic tissue paper wings and calf boots covered in white fur, is her “trans mother,” who helped her transition when she was 18. Showing the wings is Kendrick, a 37 year old girl. Hairdresser, 12, said she was dressed as a 'trans angel'.

“I had a biblical feeling that angels were neither male nor female, so I associated that with my outfit,” she told the Los Angeles Times.

A crowd of spectators erupted when the parade began around 11 a.m. with a group of bikers called the Motorcycle Contingent for Equality revving their engines and honking their horns, rainbow flags waving as they were rolling.

Riders atop the TransLatina Coalition float, decorated with light blue, light pink and white flowers and balloons, with the trans flag on the side, wore quinceaera dresses to celebrate the organization's 15th anniversary, reported the Times.

The parade and festival attracted more than 100,000 people to not only watch the procession, but also participate in food, drinks, entertainment and performances throughout the day.

The parade started at 11 a.m. on Highland Avenue and Sunset Boulevard, then headed north on Highland, east on Hollywood Boulevard, south on Cahuenga Boulevard and finally back toward Sunset.

“Star Trek” actor/activist George Takei served as Iconic Grand Marshal.

“As a witness to the struggles and triumphs of our community over the years, I am filled with gratitude for the progress we have made and inspired to continue the fight for full acceptance and equality for all,” said Takei in a statement.

Professional wrestler Cassandro El Exotico will serve as grand marshal, while Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley — the agency's first openly gay chief — will serve as community grand marshal.

“These individuals embody this year’s theme, ‘Power in Pride,’ not only through their own accomplishments, but also through their unwavering commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and visibility,” said Gerald Garth, chair of the board. of directors of event sponsor Christopher Street West, in a press release. . “As this year's Grand Marshals, they embody the essence of empowerment, showing us that our differences are not obstacles but sources of strength. Together, they inspire us to embrace our identity and break down barriers .”

Crowley said she was “thrilled” to have the title of community grand marshal.

“This recognition is not only a reflection of my own efforts, but a testament to the hard work and dedication of all those who have fought for LGBTQ rights and equality.”

Businesses were adorned with banners representing several LGBTQ+ groups, including rainbow, transgender and pansexual flags. The dinosaur at the top of Ripley's Believe It or Not! was wrapped in a colorful scarf, oversized heart-shaped glasses and a sign reading “Power in Pride,” as anthems from queer icons including Donna Summer and Madonna played, according to the Times.

The LA Pride Block Party followed the parade. It started at noon and continued until 8 p.m. on Hollywood Boulevard, between Vine and Gower streets. The free event included vendor and information booths, a beer garden, food trucks and live entertainment.

LA Pride festivities began Saturday with Pride in the Park at Los Angeles State Historic Park. The day-long event was highlighted by a concert featuring iconic singer Ricky Martin.