Often when we think of Gay Pride marches, we think of the floats, incredible parties, gorgeous drag queens and impressive shows. While all this is a great and welcome symbol of how much the struggle for civil rights for LGBT people has advanced, we should take a moment to reflect on the history and importance of this event.

Gay Pride events dating back to the year 1970 and the first was organized in the U.S. in part to commemorate the Stonewall riots, a key moment in the struggle for civil rights of LGBT people. The celebration of Gay Pride in Madrid began in 1979, four years after Franco’s death, and two years after the first demonstration in Barcelona

In recent years the Gay Pride in Madrid has become a key event in a neighborhood that since the 90s has been a referential “gay neighborhood,” as the formerly rough neighborhood has become a neighborhood full of life and culture, which enjoys a healthy economy. In 2009 more than 1.5 million people joined the celebrations in Madrid, and in 2007, more than 2.5 people came to attend the Europride in Madrid, introducing the world to this downtown neighborhood near Gran Via, between Fuencarral street and Barquillo street.

Spain has been a referential country in the struggle for civil rights for the LGBT spectrum: since 2005, Spain is one of the five countries of the world that allows marriage between members of the same sex and has some of the most progressive laws regarding issues affecting the LGBT community.

To show your solidarity, join the Gay Pride 2010 on July 3, and watch the streets fill with feathers, camp, leather, music and color: appreciate the diversity that makes our collective life so interesting and beautiful. Book your Apartments in Madrid and have an unforgettable experience!