I had an incredible experience at Mexico City’s LGBT Pride. This event holds a special place in my heart because it's not just a celebration, but also a chance for me to see people from all walks of life, including friends, allies, and even families join together in marching on Paseo de la Reforma avenue, the most iconic street in the city.
As the day of the parade approached, there was palpable excitement in the air. I carefully selected my outfit, making sure to include elements that represented the spirit of the LGBT community. With the bi flag draped around my shoulders and an uncontainable smile, I joined the colorful sea of participants gathering at the starting point.
As the parade kicked off, the energy was electric. Rainbow flags fluttered high above the crowd, creating a beautiful mosaic of unity and pride. I was surrounded by people of every background, sexual orientation, and gender, all coming together to celebrate love and acceptance. It was a powerful reminder that we were not alone. Although bigotry is less common in the big cities such as Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende, and Mexico City, most LGBT people face ignorant and hateful attitudes in smaller towns spread throughout the 32 states that make up Mexico. For that reason, I have always believed that Pride is particularly important for people in rural communities in order to defend their freedom to be their true self.
As we marched through the streets of Mexico City, the sheer magnitude of the event struck me. Thousands of people lined the sidewalks, cheering, clapping, and waving in support. Belonging washed over me like the warmth of the sun. It was empowering to know that our voices were being heard and our presence acknowledged.
Every year at Pride I connect with fellow bi folks who, like me, have faced their own struggles and triumphs. We exchange stories, share in one another’s laughter, and bask in our freedom. I see parents proudly walking alongside their LGBT children — a poignant reminder that love transcends labels and that our sexualities are something to be celebrated, not hidden.
There was an unforgettable moment at the 2007 Mexico City Pride where a couple of men in their 50s dressed in resplendently colorful quinceañera dresses were involved in a hilarious incident involving a cowboy float. In the midst of the bustling Pride parade, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of rainbow flags and extravagant costumes, I noticed these men strutting along the route, their norm-defying attire grabbing the attention of everyone nearby. When a float of cowboys passed by, playfully throwing hats to the cheering crowd, a hat struck one of the quinceañeras on the head, causing his umbrella to slip from his grip. In an unexpected twist, the umbrella inadvertently knocked the wig off the other one's head!
In that split second, a collective gasp filled the air, followed by a wave of hysterical laughter. The two men, momentarily taken aback, joined in the mirth. Their amusingly frantic search for the wig, punctuated by quick glances at one another and animated gestures, only added to the hilarity of the moment. In that heartwarming and comical scene, barriers dissolved, and strangers became connected through laughter and shared joy. The incident showcased the resilience and light-hearted spirit of Pride, where people come together, celebrate diversity, and create lasting memories.
Every year the parade comes to an end, but in a sense I carry it with me everywhere I go, knowing that the journey continues. Mexico City Pride has given me the opportunity to proudly embrace my bisexuality and to stand tall among a community that accepts and celebrates me for who I am. It has strengthened my resolve to live authentically and has ignited a fire within me to advocate for bi visibility and foster a world where everyone in the LGBT community is accepted.
I have, however, also had cause to reflect on one thing in particular in recent years. Pride has expanded into a global phenomenon, but as it gains popularity and mainstream acceptance, it becomes susceptible to corporate influence. Pride originated as a grassroots movement to demand equality, respect, and recognition. It has grown so much in the years since, but its primary purpose remains amplifying LGBT voices, and raising awareness of our issues.
As the LGBT community has become more visible and socially accepted, big business recognized an opportunity to capitalize on the movement. In Mexico City, for instance, companies now participate in the parade by sponsoring floats adorned with their logos, branding, and products. I’m left with conflicted feelings. Sure, the motivations of businesses are ultimately self-serving, but it is nevertheless a sign of progress and further support for LGBT rights that celebrating our community has gone mainstream.