San Diego LGBT Pride will hold an information session for the 2015 Military Contingent at the San Diego LGBT Center, Friday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m., in preparation for the 41st Annual San Diego LGBT Pride Parade, “Liberty and Justice For All.”
San Diego LGBT Pride continues the proud tradition of recognizing and welcoming members of the Armed Forces – active-duty, veterans, allies and their loved ones to show their pride as part of the official Military Contingent.
This year marks the fifth year service members will participate in the parade as an official contingent. In 2011, before the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, service members walked in the parade wearing branch specific t-shirts. In 2012, due to overwhelming interest, the Office of the Secretary of Defense issued a memorandum, which granted service members permission to wear uniforms in the parade; a first for any pride in the nation.
More than 200 participants have registered for this year’s military contingent. For the first time, active-duty transgender service members will also openly participate in the parade.
“We are proud to recognize and honor ALL service members, past and present, who serve our community and nation regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said Garth Langley, San Diego LGBT Pride. “We encourage members of the LGBT military community and their loved ones to participate in San Diego’s largest civic event which honors their service and contributions to the community.”
Service members are encouraged to wear authorized uniforms in the parade, but must receive permission from their chain of command. If permission is not granted, participants will receive a FREE “Serving With Pride” military contingent t-shirt. Shirts will be distributed during Friday’s information session for those who register online at www.sdpride.org/military and RVSP on the FB event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1628260457419720/.
The 2015 parade begins at the corner of Normal Street and University on Saturday, July 18th, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.
