Sydney gay pride event turns 30

I was reading the news on BBC News and a very interesting headline catch my attention; Sydney gay pride event turns 30!!! I have absolutely no idea that people in Australia celebrates such event. Anyway, I will recommend people to read the article and gain some insight.

-
BBC News
Saturday, 1 March 2008
Some 300,000 people have turned out in Sydney, Australia, for the 30th annual gay and lesbian Mardi Gras parade.

The event has become one of the largest gay pride festivals in the world and generates millions in tourism revenue. Members of the original 1978 march, which ended in clashes with police and 50 arrests, are being honoured. About 100 ministers and clergy will offer an apology for the treatment of gays and lesbians.

While Sydney has embraced its gay community, not all of Australia has, said one of the 1978 marchers.

"It is still very difficult for young people in country towns to come out as lesbian or gay, and even in outer suburbs and regional centres," Diane Minnis told The Age newspaper.

Now it is arguably the world's pre-eminent gay and lesbian celebration.

Source: BBC News