There’s nothing else like Gay Pride weekend in New York City, a hot, boisterous celebration of diversity, equality, and outrageous fun. This past weekend, the Shutterstock staff was proud to take part in the 2013 New York City Pride March. It’s an experience we won’t soon forget!
The Shutterstock float, with music cranked up, became a rolling, bouncing, fabulous dance party on wheels. Leading the float, we marched with a banner and rainbow-colored t-shirts that declared our “Made in NYC” pride with the slogan, “5 Boroughs, One Love.”
As we paraded down Manhattan’s majestic Fifth Avenue, hundreds of thousands of onlookers packed the streets, waving rainbow flags. Cheers echoed though the canyons of the skyscrapers. Turning down the narrower streets of Greenwich Village, past the historic Stonewall Inn, the crowds grew denser and louder.
More than just a big party, this year the march doubled as a celebration of two recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that advanced the cause of marriage equality. Spontaneous displays of laughter, hugs, glitter, bubbles, and dancing broke out all along the way.
Parades are a good time, but the march toward equality lasts beyond one weekend. We’re proud to be part of a community that celebrates diversity and cherishes the freedom to be who you are. It’s a reason to celebrate!
All of the above photos are by our own Alex Rodrigues, a Shutterstock Contributor Success Representative.
* * * *
You can see more sights and sounds from the parade, gathered by Shutterstock Lead Engineer Kris Arnold, here on Storify.
