THOUSANDS of people packed Glasgow Green yesterday for the two-day Pride Glasgow, as Scotland’s biggest celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex culture drew to a close.
This year’s focus was on family life and the message that everyone should have the chance to enjoy one without discrimination or persecution.
Members of Girlguiding Scotland from across the country, pictured, showed their pride in guiding during the parade through Glasgow, where they were cheered on by spectators.
Nicola Sturgeon became the first serving First Minister to speak at the event, and received rapturous applause when she told crowds: “Love is Love, wherever you are and whoever you are.”
However, Sturgeon said there was still work to be done to achieve true equality.
She added: “My pledge as your First Minister today is this: as long as I hold this office we will continue to do everything we need to do to make sure Scotland is not just one of the best countries in the world, but the best country in the world for LGBTI rights.”
There were an estimated 5000 taking part in Saturday’s parade with 10 times as many thought to have been watching.
There were just five arrests made by Police Scotland, who had been invited to lead the march.
The Girlguiding Scotland group joined community and voluntary organisations and met with members of the public at the Pride Community Expo, where visitors were given special edition “girls can be proud” temporary tattoos.
They also had the chance to learn more about how Girlguiding Scotland offers a safe space for girls and young women to grow in confidence. The body has almost 50,000 young members between five and 25, and activities include camping, campaigning, social action and international travel.
Cara, 18, of 5th Hamilton Senior Section, who was among those representing the charity, said: “I was really excited to join with Girlguiding Scotland members from all over the country once again in the Pride Glasgow parade and show everyone that girls can be proud.
“As someone who is part of the LGBT+ community I feel especially proud of everything that Girlguiding Scotland has done for me over the years.
“Girlguiding Scotland is all about giving girls and young women a safe space to try new experiences, learn new skills, make new friends and feel confident and it’s amazing to be part of an inclusive organisation that makes a huge difference to the lives of so many girls.”
Claire, a guide leader from Glasgow, added: “I’m really proud to represent Girlguiding Scotland and show everyone that we offer fun and adventure to all girls – and adults too.”
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