Thousands join in global gay pride parades

Thousands of people have joined gay pride parades across the world a day after the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall raid in New York that spurred the movement.

Mexico City's Angel of Independence dominates the starting point of the a gay pride parade in Mexico City. Source: AP

Thousands of people have turned out for gay pride celebrations across the world, including a boisterous march through the Mexican capital.

Rainbow flags and umbrellas swayed and music pounded as Saturday's march along Paseo de la Reforma got underway, with couples, families and activists seeking to raise visibility for sexual diversity in a country still plagued by macho attitudes.

Revelers fill Mexico City's iconic Reforma Avenue during the gay pride parade. Source: AP

Other LGBTQ celebrations took place from India to Europe, with more events planned for Sunday in New York and elsewhere around the globe.

In the North Macedonian capital of Skopje, US charge d'affaires Micaela Schweitzer-Bluhm attended.

A reveler make ups prior starting the gay pride parade in Mexico City, Mexico. Source: AP

Same-sex civil unions have been legal in Mexico City since 2007, and gay marriage since 2009.

A handful of Mexican states have followed suit, and same-sex unions are supposed to be recognised nationwide.

On Friday, thousands of people converged on the Stonewall Inn in New York for the 50th anniversary of the rebellion that catalysed a movement for LGBTQ liberation, marking the milestone with celebrity performances, speeches and personal reflections.

People from New York and afar came to take photos and share in the legacy of the gay bar where patrons resisted a police raid, sparking protests and longer-term organising that made the cause considerably more visible.