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Thousands gather for jubilant Pride Parade

E-mail|Link|Comments () June 13, 2009 04:47 PM

(David L. Ryan/Globe Staff)

The marchers banged drums on Berkeley Street.

By Jazmine Ulloa, Globe Staff

Decked out in socks with multi-colored peace signs and a top hat resplendent with the colors of the rainbow, Adam Blake was excited to participate in today's annual Pride Parade in Boston.

The 14-year-old was a member of the First Parish of Sudbury youth group, which voted a few weeks ago to come to the parade, a jubilant celebration of gay rights that is winding through the city's downtown area this afternoon.

"It's just a very inviting community. It's great to come and represent and have a lot of fun," he said.

Thousands participated. Bands played, music blared from loudspeakers, people tooted on noisemakers, and people passed out beads as the colorful procession made its way through the streets.

Organizers say that 127 groups registered, and more than 10,000 marchers are expected, with a total crowd of 500,000 attending.

The parade includes 46 floats and large vehicles, as well as 120 motorcycles. Parade organizers said the event is intended to promote awareness, dignity, and understanding of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.