The mayor, Sadiq Khan, led the march with his wife, Saadiya. They were joined by Andrew Boff, a Conservative London assembly member, and Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, an air quality campaigner.
Khan said in a statement, "I'm happy that London's diverse LGBTQI+ communities and their supporters are coming together again in the center of our city for our famous Pride celebrations and solidarity march."
"Pride is one of the best parts of my year, and I am honored to have joined every march since I became mayor in 2016."
The non-profit group Pride in London organizes the celebrations, with about 500 LGBTQ+ community groups and businesses participating. This involves over 32,000 people.
The mayor added, "This amazing event highlights LGBTQI+ rights and shows why our city is known for being open and inclusive. It's a place where everyone is accepted and celebrated for who they are. London's LGBTQI+ communities greatly contribute to the city's life."
"However, there is still work to do to reach true equality. As a proud ally, I will keep supporting London's LGBTQI+ communities to help build a better city for everyone."
Before the event, Transport for London warned there might be disruptions and some tube stations could close. Other stages were set up around the city, including Soho Square, Leicester Square, and Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Eight Christian protesters gathered next to the Pride parade, reciting religious messages that criticized the event, according to PA Media. They stood in a fenced-off area beside the parade route.
Several police officers were positioned around the protest on Piccadilly to prevent clashes. The protesters held signs that read "Repent and turn to Christ" and "Be not proud, for the Lord hath spoken ... a man's pride shall bring him low."
A man from the group spoke to the parade through a loudspeaker and received negative reactions from the marchers, who jeered at him.
Participants from the group Queers for Palestine also marched down Piccadilly, chanting "there is no pride in genocide."
The group of 50 people carried posters accusing Israel of genocide and condemning "pinkwashing," which refers to the claim that Israel promotes gay rights to enhance its global image.
When asked why she chose to join the group, a female marcher who preferred not to give her name said, "I support Palestine's freedom."
Tahir Kesai, a 50-year-old who works in property, stated, "We chose to march because we believe it's crucial to be present. We're deeply committed to this cause and couldn't stay away."
SOURCE: The Guardian