Pink
Paradigm, whose focus is to promote positive community visibility
of gays and lesbians, won an award for the "MostCreative"
float entry in the Pride Holiday 2000 Parade, which took place
June 24, 2000, at Columbus, Ohio.
The float's theme, "Lost Liberty Blues" is based on a song by the gay lyricist Cole Porter, and represents what can happen if freedom is taken for granted. "Liberty" can indeed become "a slave in the land of the free and the home of the brave". The pink statue is an educational reminder for all citizens to be ever vigilant and proactive against those who would deny freedoms based on race, nationality, creed, gender or sexual orientation.
The costume portraying Liberty in chains was designed and sewn by Paradigm member Elaine St. John-Lagenaur. In Liberty's most recent appearance in the Columbus parade, the statue was portrayed by Paradigm member Michael Blankenship. Special thanks is extended to all Pink Paradigm members for marching in the parade, helping with numerous details and providing emotional support and energy for successful parade participation.
