Every year, millions of Europeans take part in the dozens of Prides held in every corner of the continent. This impressive mass of queers and allies rallies behind one message: we exist, we are one, we want to be seen. 

And yet each individual participant is drawn to these colourful parades for different, but very personal reasons. Some seek to connect, others to make their voices heard. Some want to celebrate community, others to engage in open political struggle. More often it is a combination of all of these.