The Antwerp Pride is an event organized every Summer in Antwerp. The party event takes several days and consists of multiple activities. The main event everyone is always looking forward to the most is the parade. All organisations that are active in or support homosexuality, transgenderness, etc participate in the parade. Everyone puts on their finest clothes or costumes and is dancing happily around. This event is not just a party though. The most important thing about it is to create awareness.

Antwerp Pride: why there should be more events like this in the world

During the parade several signs passed by with statements about equality, tolerance, peace, love, solidarity… Because unfortunately there is still a lot of hate in the world. When I saw all these people walking by, I also noticed some not smiling at all, some even seemed a bit shy or afraid. I think it is because they were concerned someone would yell bad stuff at them. Maybe even throw things at them. Because unfortunately, later, I found out that there was another case of gay bashing during the Antwerp Pride. Two men had yelled some insulting homohating words at a guy and attacked him. He needed to go to the hospital because they dislocated his shoulder. When I read things like that, I get so sad.

I think events like the Antwerp Pride should be organized more. Because it also creates a lot of solidarity and openess amongst (all) people. That morning while I was wandering around the city, I got so many smiles and compliments and people even started to talk to me. People were in such a good mood. When I saw all these happy people passing by in the parade, I could only think that these are brave people, wearing costumes that are at times very extravagant or revealing. I’m sure it will shock some, but I hope everyone realises that beneath those outfits are normal people just like you and me. Because that is a fact that can be quickly forgotten and you could say that, because of that, all that extravaganza is a negative aspect of the parade. But honestly, would you go to the parade if everyone was in their “normal outfit”? And that being said, those outfits are part of their culture, their lifestyle, sometimes even their jobs. So why would that be negative?

I loved the parade at the Antwerp Pride and I hope it did create more awareness and tolerance. Beneath are some pictures I hope really show the love and vibe of this parade and a video I created. Enjoy and spread the word about equality and love!

 

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