1980-1989

Nearly every lesbian and gay organization in Boston was represented in the Parade.

The mayor’s office brought better news this year, as Mayor White signed an executive order banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

Even the surge in attendance to 18,000 was seen as a sign that people wanted to come together out of fear and confusion.

Pride obtained permission from the City to enclose the ball field on Boston Common for hot air balloon rides and rides on a reluctant camel.

By 1985, it was clear that President Ronald Reagan had no intention of addressing the mounting scourge of AIDS.

After four years in office, President Reagan finally mentioned the word “AIDS”

A banner with the Lavender Rhinoceros and pink triangle was raised at City Hall

The 1988 parade was the first parade run by a formally incorporated Pride Committee,
which required pre-registration for groups marching in the parade.

Some expressed disagreement with Pride’s decision to omit “bisexual”