The co-producer of next month's Auckland Pride Parade are hoping to stimulate historically under-represented groups to become part of the parade. The ribbons are cut for the 2016 parade The parade is “well underway in its preparation," says Jonathan Smith, parade co-producer along with Shaughan Woodcock. He says over 35 floats are registered already and at least 20 expressions of interest still to be pursed, Smith, brought back after creating the initial 2003 parade, say “there wasn’t a lot of support back then”so in creating the parade back then he had to be “safe’ in its organisation. This years ‘Pride And Progress: The Carnival Continues’ theme is about “celebrating what we have succeeded and recognising what challenges we are still to face,” he says, adding that this year's parade focus is aimed at trying to get involved those groups of our community who are often overlooked and seemingly left out. Smiths “community focus” is being reflected in the encouragement of getting these groups off the ground and onto floats. He says reaching out to these groups can be difficult as “ultimately the level of participation is down to them, for some of these groups they don’t know where to start”. Smith sees his role as vital, in “turning their initial ideas into an artistic and presentable float.” Reflecting on prior criticism of the parade and the heavy number of big corporate floats, Smith points out that “without these who pay higher register fees, unable to support the lesser groups”. He acknowledges the possibility of protest this year, and knows “that with an event this size, there is always a likelihood of protest activity. The key is finding a way for even those to express what they need to, but making sure that this is done in a safe way, for everyone.” The opening of the parade will involve the cutting of six ribbons reflecting the colours of the pride rainbow flag by six yet to be determined VIPs. Smith says he is working with the local tangata whenua to find a respectful way to bless the parade route. The blessing will be followed by the Pride float and the main body of the parade. Prior to the official start of the parade at 7:30 pm, entertainment along Ponsonby road is planned to begin at 5:30pm.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 13th January 2017 - 1:00pm