I had the immense joy of marching in the 2025 Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras with Rainbow Families. Every year Rainbow Families proudly, loudly and fabulously participate in the parade – celebrating and promoting their Mission to support, connect, empower and advocate for Rainbow Families at every stage of their lives. Before the parade the group comes together to decide on costumes, dance routines and float themes. This year the float theme was "Free to be Family". Banners are painted, the float is crafted and T-shirts are produced for everyone – in a mammoth group effort. For LGBTQIA+ parents, it is an opportunity to celebrate and be visible for their kids, and to make memories that will last a lifetime! Thank you to Ashley Scott, Scott Brunelle and all the whole team at Rainbow Families for welcoming my family and I, for providing a wonderful experience for families, and for the ongoing invaluable support and advocacy they provide 365 days of the year for our LGBTIQ+ community.