Halifax Pride is done for the year.
There were events, discussions and round tables, parties both private and public, dancing, parades and protests and a whole lot of queers in this town.
It has been estimated that close to 100,000 people watched the parade on Saturday. Those people lined the streets to watch, they walked the streets, they partied on the Garrison Grounds.
But I’d like to talk about the unofficial guardian angel of pride: Mr Raymond Taavel.
When Raymond was alive, you would see him everywhere during Pride week. He’d ask you how you were, what you thought, all with a keen and eagre smile. This year was no different. Posters emblazoned with Taavel’s face could be seen throughout the city, in shop windows, in people’s homes and even on street poles. It was like Raymond never left; he was still here, smiling and beaming pride over the festivities.
It was lovely to see you, Raymond. I hope to see you soon again.