Write a commentVisitors thronged to Newry for the colourful Pride in Newry Festival on Saturday. The Festival now in it’s fifth year is firmly on the map not just in Newry but throughout the province, with visitors coming from far and near.
The weather was extremely kind to the organisers, staying dry for the entire parade and concert despite heavy thunderstorms elsewhere!
The colourful parade wound it’s way down Monaghan Street across Newry Canal, Past Newry Town Hall and then up Hill Street passing a wedding at Newry Cathedral.
Many colourful floats took part with the Newry Rainbow Community taking a solemn moment, remembering the Orlando massacre on theirs with a full list of the victims on display.
The parade was led by Newry’s first citizen Cllr Gillian Fitzpatrick who commended the organisers for all their hard work in organising the event and spoke of her pleasure in being part of the festivities especially since it was her birthday.
Also speaking before the Pride in Newry concert Junior Minister Megan Fearon said “I’m honoured to be part of today’s celebrations in Newry. Events like these are extremely important in promoting equality and inclusion of the LGBT community in our society. Diversity should not just be respected, it should be celebrated, and I commend the festival team in bringing this wonderful event to Newry for the fifth year.
“This is not just an event for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people. It’s an event for the entire community regardless of sexual orientation. We want a shared society that respects diversity. We must create and foster a community which promotes mutual respect and understanding; a community which celebrates and gains strength from its diversity. We must tackle the barriers that arise for people as a result of aspects of their identity, including sexual orientation and gender.”
The Minister added: “The festival encourages us to be proud of who we are and have pride in where we’re from. To me that sums up the feeling of everyone participating today; amongst all the colour and energy, there is a real sense of pride in ourselves, in our differences and in the city.”
Other speakers included Patrick Corrigan from Amnesty International.
Representatives from Sinn Fein, SDLP and Alliance Party all took part in the parade.
The Pride in Newry concert after the parade in McClelland Park saw Union J headlining with their many fans claiming the prized position at front of stage for the entire day. Members of the band took time out for selfies with their fans after the gig. Other artists taking part included boyband Taken, Ellie Dibben, Conleth Kane, Graciano Major, local band Rabbit Hole, The Iconettes, Just Adam Band, Chrissy Leggs and Onya Becks.
