“The hardest times for a lot of queer people is youth because it is a very new and scary experience at first, so being able to see that and empower young people to get out and be part of the community is incredible,” he said. Julian Becker is a freshman at Miami Beach High, who was marching with Pridelines. Miami Beach Pride brings together members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community, their friends, allies, and supporters in celebration of the unique spirit and culture of the LGBTQ+ community. “They can’t get into these other booths that are 21 and over, and then you’re looking at them sad, like ‘I wish I could go in there,’” she said. Jowharah Sanders, a Pridelines youth engagement coordinator, said the district is meant to provide a safe place for younger participants. It was hosted by LGBTQ youth support group Pridelines. New this year was a youth district and safe zone. “Lots of creativity, lots of fun as everybody marches down Ocean Drive celebrating who they are,” he said. He said 83 groups would draw a crowd of more than 135,000 people. Paul Thomas is on the board of Miami Beach Gay Pride.
Ocean Drive was shut down for the duration of the main parade, which ran from Fifth to 15th streets. On Sunday, the event culminated with a parade. Events began last Monday with a rainbow flag-raising ceremony at City Hall. Miami Beach celebrated pride in its 10th annual Gay Pride Festival this past week.
