U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud to Lead Portland’s Pride Parade

The Democratic candidate for governor will be leading the 28th Pride Parade in Portland.

Last fall in an op-ed article, Rep. Mike Michaud announced that he's gay. If elected, he will be the first openly gay candidate to be elected governor in U.S. history.

Michaud announced his participation in the parade in a written statement:

'Over the years Maine has been a leader in our country’s march toward equality for LGBT citizens, and I look forward to continuing that march alongside all of you this year.'

Alongside Michaud, as grand marshals, will be Sarah Holmes and the family of Nicole Maines. Holes is the assistant director of student life and diversity, as well as the coordinator for the Center for Sexualities and Gender Diversity at the USM. Maines, transgender student, was refused the use of the girls bathroom at her school. She has become an inspiration after winning a discrimination lawsuit against the school.

The annual Portland Pride Parade draws about 2,000 participants and thousands of spectators every year. It's scheduled for June 21.