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Portage la Prairie is one proud city. About a thousand people took part in the city's first-ever Pride March, with no shortage of local representation, and those from other Manitoban communities. Organizers are deeming the event a success, noting the turnout surpassed what they'd dreamed of. Josh Wright was one of those behind the parade, and during the speeches prior to the march he shared his own story of coming out in 2015. He says after that experience he became interested in the issue, leading to Saturday's Pride March and social. Overall Wright says he was encouraged by the support, noting it really shows just how caring of a community Portage really is, as well as how much the Pride movement is progressing. 

Josh Wright addresses the crowd

"It shows that it's really strong, really alive, and carries the message of love. That's why people are here. People are in a good mood, people can be themselves. It's a movement that invites others to be a part of it."

He notes the event never would have become a reality without the work of all the organizers, which includes William Garrioch. Garrioch addressed the crowd, becoming emotional as he thanks all those in attendance for their support. He says what they've been able to accomplish in a short time period is incredibly exciting, and bodes well for the future of Pride events in the city.

"It's absolutely amazing. I hope in continues for years to go, I just love it.

Another speaker during the day's festivities was Mayor Irvine Ferris. Organizers credited Ferris for showing no hesitation to become a part of the parade, and march alongside the participants. Ferris notes he received many questions surrounding his support, mostly stemming from a lack of municipal government support for events in other communities. Ferris explains politicians have a responsibility to support their citizens, and to take a stand in favour of human rights.

Mayor Irvine Ferris delivers remarks from MLA Ian Wishart"There's a whole bunch of reasons. When a community becomes more inclusive, more supportive, a lot of good things happen. Communities tend to prosper more, and tend to grow. But, there's one overriding reason to do this, and it's simple, it's just the right thing to do."

One of those taking part in the march says the support of the Mayor is one reason Portage's first ever pride parade was a success. Bob Burgess of Winnipeg took part, and says it's exciting to see municipal support for the LGBT+ community. He says he was surprised to see so many coming out for the day's festivities, but says with that level of inclusiveness in Portage there can only be good things for the community's future.

"That will make people stay in a smaller community if they're accepted. Otherwise, right away they're gone as soon as they can be. Then, you end up with communities where all the young people are leaving the area."

Catherine Gibbs also took part in the event, and says the amazing showing of support really highlighted a positive side of the city that isn't always seen. She decided to march in the parade as a member of the Manitoba Government and General Employees Union, which she says really demonstrates the importance of these types of marches.

"A lot of our members, it impacts them. Human rights effects everyone, and a lot of our own members. It's supporting people, and that's the best thing we can do."

While Portage la Prairie MLA Ian Wishart wasn't in attendance at the event, he sent a statement in support of the March along with Ferris. While Wishart wasn't in attendance, there were a number of members of the legislature. PC MLAs Shannon Martin and Colleen Mayer, and NDP members Nahanni Fontaine and James Allum were all in attendance. In some brief remarks, Martin commented that the Pride March was no place for politics, and thanked all members of the legislature who had attended.