It’s an unusual feeling, that sense of connectedness to something that happened long ago, before you were even alive to see it. Every year at Manchester Pride, once the vivid flashes of disco lights and vibrant music begin to fade, I attend the Candelit Vigil. It’s a time to remember those in our community that have passed on, many of whom lost their lives to AIDS. This is followed by a powerful, roaring applause, and later the bright colours of fireworks and confetti, choir singing triumphantly. There is a sense of a prevailing and resilient community, in memory of these wonderful, bright souls.
