as a symbol of solidarity within the community and a show of force for many different marginalized groups in this country.

In NYC, there are tons of parades.

The Puerto Rican day parade has had some problems. People see it as "ghetto" because of some of the things that have happened in the past, but I am sure a majority of people dont think Puerto Ricans are "ghetto" because of a few people acting stupid at a parade.  And not everyone that goes is Puerto Rican.

On St. Patty's day in the city, everyone gets wasted, cops and firefighters included. Does that mean all Irish people are drunks? As much as its a joke to say so, I dont think anyone thinks the actions of people on St. Patty's day reflects among all Irish people.  Also, not everyone who celebrates St. Patty's day is Irish.

The same is true in NYC.  I know plenty of people who go to the Pride parade who arent in the LGBT community, but they are supporters, or just enjoy it.  They celebrate afterwards or before hand. And people do go a bit crazy.  Is it a reflection of the entire gay community? Is everyone a raging expressionist?  Does everyone act that way on a daily basis? No.  Most of the people that go live normal lives every day. They wake up in the morning, pee first thing like the rest of the people on Earth, have their coffeee tea or whatever, and then go to work, come back and watch tv like everyone else.