Regina Queen City Pride has record parade attendance despite rain

The pouring rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of people taking part in Saturday's Queen City Pride parade.

Over 80 groups, floats and organizations registered for the parade this year, and with a surge in participation it was slated to be the biggest Pride parade the city has ever held.

And it was, according to Dan Shier,co-chair of Regina Pride.

"In terms of people participating we actually broke last year's record, despite the weather," said Shier.

Close to 2,000 people took part in the parade this year, which was very close to double the participation of last year's parade, said Shier.

'It makesme feel like I'm not alone'

For Tatum Schultz and Lucy Marick,the parade was a chance to feel accepted and proud althougha little chilly.

On the corner of Scarth Street and Victoria Avenue the two stood by as the parade started its route through downtown Regina.

"I'm part of the community, and it's just a good thing to show your support and be who you want to be around other people who are like you," said Schultz.

"It makes me feel like I'm not alone, just that you have someone there. You need it."

This year Amnesty International were the Pride parade's grand marshals. The human rights organization led the parade this year, with signs stating 'Human rights are my pride'while blasting dance music from a portable radio.

"Oh, it's an absolute honour," said Daylene Sliz, president of Amnesty International in Regina,

"Every person in the world Canadians and globally everyone needs to be able to feel protected and safe regardless of their gender," said Sliz.

The Queen City Pride Festivalwill wrap up on Sunday. This year ws the biggest Pride ever hosted in Regina. Celebrations went from June 9 18 with over 55 events hosted and planned by Queen City Pride.