10 LGBT Pride Parade Facts Proving It's More than a March

Hyped for this year's LGBT Pride Parade? We are, too. Here are some interesting facts in honor of June.

From wearing pride outfits to waving rainbow flags, millions of Pride-goers look forward to attending the annual LGBT pride parade across the world. Beyond the vibrant floats and rainbow outfits, LGBT pride parades serve as a poignant reminder of how far we've come since the Stonewall Riots. Let's keep the spirit of inclusivity and diversity alive. In honor of June, here are some interesting facts about LGBT pride parades worth remembering.

PRIDE FACT #1: The U.S. hosts about 140 LGBT pride parades annually.

You can attend gay pride parades in virtually every U.S. state. Pride month is celebrated from the east to west coast, even small, local towns host the march.

PRIDE FACT #2: Over 5.5 million people attend LGBT pride parades in the USA.

Currently, there are no hard statistics on the total number of parade participants, but roughly 5.5 million people attended the Pride march in 2015. This estimate includes participants from Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington DC. We can only expect numbers to rise in 2016!

PRIDE FACT #3: Sao Paulo Pride is the biggest pride parade in the world.

In 2006, the Guinness Book of World Records deemed Brazil's Sao Paulo Pride as the biggest pride parade in the world. Currently attracting over 5 million participants, Sao Paulo Pride even offers travel packages for the full experience.

PRIDE FACT #4: Sligo, Ireland hosts the smallest pride parade in the world.

Sligo hosts the smallest pride parade in the world of only 100 participants. Despite being the smallest, locals say this may be one of the friendliest parades in northwestern Ireland.

PRIDE FACT #5: Any profits from LGBT pride parades are donated to LBGTQ+ groups and future projects.  

Ever wonder where your contributions are going? Pride parades are organized by non-profit organizations, donations, and sponsors, varying by location. Some funds are allocated for the parade, such as supplies and insurance, while some profit is donated to LGBTQ+ groups.

PRIDE FACT #6: Pride 2016's largest U.S. sponsors include Hilton, TD Bank, T-Mobile, and Bud Light. 

Surpised to see these companies on the list? These corporations are just a few that made the list! T-Mobile has sponsored Seattle Pride. Bud Light has sponspored both Pride Houston and San Francisco Pride. Hilton has supported LGBT pride parades for over 3 years. TD Bank has sponsored NYC Pride for over a decade now.

PRIDE FACT #7: The Mob used to own the Stonewall Inn.

Nicknamed 'Fat Tony,' Tony Lauria boldly transformed the struggling Stonewall Inn from a 'straight' bar to a lively gay hotspot on Christopher Street. He controlled every detail, ensuring a discreet atmosphere through a monthly bribe of around $1,200 to New York's Sixth Police Precinct.

PRIDE FACT #8: Brenda Howard is the Mother of Pride. 

Brenda Howard, a notable bisexual activist, is often recognized for her role in linking the term "pride" to LGBTQ+ activism. While not fully credited with coining the term, her substantial contributions firmly associate her with the origin and popularization of "pride" in this context.

PRIDE FACT #9: Gilbert Baker created the rainbow flag. 

Gilbert Baker, an American artist and gay rights activist, is renowned for designing the rainbow flag in 1978 at Harvey Milk's request. Symbolizing diversity and inclusivity in the LGBTQ+ community, this iconic flag has become a global symbol of pride, prominently featured at LGBTQ+ rights events worldwide.

PRIDE FACT #10: LGBT pride parades are illegal in approximately 77 countries.

As of 2016, anti-homosexuality laws unfortunately still exist in some countries, including Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Nigeria, Singapore, Malaysia, and Mauritania. It's a reminder that progress never ends.

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