Twin Ports Parade Promotes Equality

SUPERIOR - The spirit of equality and acceptance marched down Tower Avenue in Superior."We've made great strides in the last couple of years for the LGBTQ people but we've got a long way to go," parade participant Gary Boelhower said. At this year's pride parade dancers, drag queens and LGBT elders were just a few performers helping to drive home an important message."It’s all about being proud,” said Boelhower. “Being part of society and ensuring that all of us are accepted and we have a truly inclusive community.""People are so happy and there's just a celebration around what people can do when they work together," Duluth City Councilor Emily Larson said. Spectators from all over were on the sidelines."I just wanted to come and watch," said Taylor Long."There's new things and you learn a lot about being yourself," said Danielle Howes-Hughes."They get bashed a lot and everybody has the right to love whoever they want to love,” said Sabrina Smith. “I wanna teach my kids that that's ok and I don't want them to ever think that it’s not ok you can be whoever you want to be." The parade was even a big draw for politicians."This is a really important place to be,” said Larson. “Not just so that people can see that it’s important to you but so that you can learn more and be a part of these really important happenings and communities." Participants and coordinators also hope this event starts a healthy conversation."Come join us, get to know us and let us love each other," said Boelhower.