Dublin's Big Gay Pride Parade Picture Extravangza 2009

`Pride and Prejudice'

Lesbian and political activist, Ailbhe Smith was the Grand Marshal of the largest Pride Parade to date in Dublin. Dublin Pride is one of many parades taking place world-wide to commemorate the 40th anniversary Stonewall Riots of New York 1969.

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Pride 2009 was the biggest held in Dublin to date with up to 12,000 people taking part. Ailbhe Smith was this years Grand Marshal - the first lesbian to do so in 26 years. She led off with whip in hand, saving it for the Government. The streets were thronged as passers by smiled, photographed and cheered. It's an incredible day when people can take to the streets and celebrate sexuality and diversity.

The groups included Siptu, the ever regular INTO banner, hikers, bikers, bellydancers, ruggerbuggers, head wreckers, genderfuckers, hopefullers, students, bubble blowers, crossdressers, transgenders, soldiers, sailors but alas no candlestick makers. It was all a fabulous display of colour and assertiveness- as the old saying goes 'We're here, we're queer and we're not going shopping'.

Turning down into Fishamble Street you saw the extent of the security: Group 4, Pride Stewards, Gardaí and private security firm I-RMS. Yep, the same guys who are Shells private security. They didn't quite know how to handle young Pride attendees who just want to have fun. I was asked for my credentials twice by two I-RMS supervisors, the first time in all my years photographing Pride and I hope the last.

Down in the amphitheatre the performers were playing a blinder. Yes, the impersonators were in force vogueing and camping it up with the diminutive Kylie Experience and Cher Guevara with her troop. I didn't think a man could ever look good in tan tights and a long sleeved pink crushed velvet leotard, but I must admit B-abe Power did. Even Panti the MC watched enviously as Pride Factor Karaoke winner Kevin hit those notes as he sang the sure crowd pleaser 'Dream the Impossible Dream'. Katherine Lynch da comedian on da Telly, played her Traveller character Singing Bernie Walsh saying she was all for gay marriage- 'But you try booking a travellers' wedding'. Vicky read a beautiful poem 'Lesbeing' another group ripped up the Civil Partnership Bill, which the government had thought would be celebrated at Pride.

People just don't seem to be able to settle for anything less than equality................................

There's nowt as Queer as folk.

Images (c)