UU Santa Monica is once again an official participant in this year’s LA Pride Parade on the morning of Sunday, June 14th. The event is one of the largest celebrations of LGBTQIA+ Pride in the world and a historic event that has been held annually in Los Angeles or West Hollywood for over fifty years.
For decades, UUSM members, families and friends, young and old, LGBTQ+ and straight allies have marched in LA Pride to represent our UU values and commitment to human rights. Historically it has often been said that “we teach our kids love, not hate,” and Side with Love. This is a lively and fun event that includes members and friends of all ages, people of all LGBTQIA+ identities, and friends and allies. Marching in LA Pride requires an application process and UUSM is honored that the organization has included us as one of the few religious communities for so many years.
This year we will joined again and led by DMRE Jessica Place along with Rev. Jeremiah, who will be marching with us for the final time as UUSM’s minister. We’ll have a pickup truck (our “float”) to decorate and signs to make and carry. There are several spots in the truck for those who need or want to ride instead of march — let us know if you would like one!
As in recent years, the parade will be televised locally on ABC7 and streaming via Hulu.The parade route is a 1.3 mile walk through the heart of Hollywood and is estimated to take about 40 min. Rendez-vous at UUSM to carpool to Hollywood on Sunday morning, or meet us at our staging area near Highland Blvd. & Fountain Ave in Hollywood at 10:30AM — UUSM is Parade Group #101.
There is a wait before “step off” time, so we don’t know exactly when they will give us the signal to start marching. The wait time is estimated to be an hour or more, but it gives us time to decorate the truck, practice chants, and get in the spirit.
To join us and to coordinate transportation and carpooling, please contact Faith in Action: justice@uusm.org
See more pics from last year below.
