Thousands take part in Lisbon Pride parade

Several thousand people marched through the Portuguese capital of Lisbon for the traditional Pride parade, the first since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Streets were filled with colorful rainbow flags, music and dance, as crowds showed their support for gay rights.

Portugal approved same-sex marriage in June 2010 but de facto unions were extended to same-sex couples before that.

Traditionally the parade has a strong political message, in an effort to shine a light on issues that affect LGBTQI people in the country.