”The Lesbian and Gay Band Association. They are a national music organization who has concert and marching bands from cities across America, that makes up a network of Lesbian and Gay bands. Their participation marks the first time that an openly-gay and lesbian group has been invited to march in an Inaugural Parade.”
WTTG Fox5 news anchor Brian Boulter announcing on air the appearance of the LGBA in front of President Barack Obama at the viewing stand near the White House. Unfortunately, the parade started late and crowds had almost completely disappeared for the parade after waiting up to half a day in below-freezing temperatures. The LGBA appearance came 2/3 of the way into the program, and Barack and Michelle Obama can be seen waving warmly to the GLBT participants. The band reportedly had 177 people representing 17 states, and played John Philip Sousa’s “The Washington Post March.”
”At former Inaugurals, we were only allowed to perform as a concert band…. [This time] we’re marching! That’s what it’s all about. It’s about being seen, being televised, being part of history — a feeling of impowerment.”
LGBA marching band major in an interview with The TakeAway before appearing in the Inauguration Parade today. (TheTakeAway.org via YouTube)
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