Times Square wasn't the only place where body positivity was celebrated over the weekend; a Body Pride Parade brought dozens to the East Village, too. Those in attendance stripped down and marched while holding handwritten signs stating "Love Your Body" and "Accept Yourself," with some passers-by joining in along the way.
The starting point was Tompkins Square Park, where people danced to a portable sound system while painting their bodies and making signs, according to photographer Gretchen Robinette. They ended the march in Union Square.
Robinette said, "The event's main purpose was providing a collective space to celebrate each other's unique body, creating a welcoming and accepting group to bare all. A large percentage of the over 50 or so participants took off their shirts, with some choosing to remain clothed, and others who stripped completely naked."
They also passed out stickers to everyone along the route that said to "Love Thy Self" and "Create Positive Energy."
The parade was organized by Lightsource, a self-described "nonprofit nondenominational spiritual organization... dedicated to fostering art and creativity" that encouraged participants to "Be extravagant, be courageous, be proud!"
