DETROIT (WWJ) — Mayor Mike Duggan and other city officials on Monday joined Motor City Pride in raising a ceremonial Pride flag in Spirit Plaza Downtown Detroit.
Monday marks the start of Pride Week in the city, which will culminate with a two-day festival in Hart Plaza on Saturday and Sunday, expected to draw more than 65,000 people.
Duggan, who will walk in Sunday’s parade at noon, called Monday’s annual raising of the flag “really important” for the city.
“It is a statement by the city. When we raise the Pride flag at city hall that you are welcome in this city and you can proudly celebrate who you are and who you love,” Duggan said. “It’s a statement about who we are as a city. We’re a city where everybody is respected and valued. Detroit’s a city where you can be who you are and you can proudly celebrate who you love.”
Motor City Pride traces its roots back to June of 1972 when the first march was held downtown in recognition of LGBT rights and equality.
Motor City Pride chair Dave Wait says the annual parade and festival remains critically important more than half a century later.
“Our goal is to show that Detroit and SE Michigan is a welcoming place for all individuals to live, work and raise their families.”
Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield said Monday was a celebration of “a rich diversity and vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.
“Detroit has always been a city that champions justice and inclusion. We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of who they love or how they identify, feels safe and supported here in our great city,” Sheffield said.
A schedule of this weekend’s Pride events can be found on the Motor City Pride website.