Out of the closet and onto the streets!

Belfast city August 2nd 2008. 6,000 people march on the streets of Belfast to celebrate gay pride. Arriving at 12pm, a party atmosphere was already building and it was clear that we were in for a good day, especially with a fine appearance from the usually anonymous sun! Gays. lesbeans and trangendered gathered there to enjoy the craic, have a day out, but most of all, to celebrate their individuality! A topic on many people's lips was the recent controversial comments made by DUP MP MLA, and chair of Stormont health committee, Iris Robinson. Many people seemed buoyed to turn out in their numbers to show solidairty, and to show the mentioned bigot, dubbed wicked witch of the north for the day, that her comments will NEVER deter the sterling work done by Belfast gay pride. I was handed a red ribbon, signifying that I oppose the stigmata attached to persons who are HIV positive (I would have rathered a tshirt but can't complain!) as this is a major issue amongst the gay community, and definately something which needs to be tackled. Perhaps the health committee chair could take a leading role?!
Even the rain, when it made a brief appearance, did little to deter the marchers' enthusiasm, and they just blew their whistles louder! Small clutches of protestors waved signs quoting bible phrase, but they were shown the detest they deserved by the marches, who were mainly applauded by the ordianry citizens of Belfast. Some controversy last year about a banner saying 'Jesus is a fag', thankfully did not repeat itself.
Back to the square and a large party ensues. I let down my hair, knowing that I have played the important part, and my journalistic skills need not be fine tuned to summarise the carnival! I met with many people, some even admitting to me that it was their first time at pride, and having a great time teasing me about my southern accent!
Success! I get my euros changed and I'm staying on for a MASSIVE party. The rest is a blur!

Would I go back next year? DEFINATELY!!