Group Health Sponsors Seattle Pride Parade

Group Health is an official sponsor of the 2009 Seattle Pride Parade. "Peace, Love, Equality" is the theme for June 28 parade, which celebrates the region's gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered communities. Michael Soman, MD, president and chief medical executive, Group Health Permanente, will be among the marchers for the Group Health team's fourth consecutive year of participation.

"I'm proud to march in this parade with our colleagues from Group Health. Serving as a sponsor is an important way to support diversity and our people. Actually participating in the walk is another," said Soman. "Walking in the parade together reminds me that principles don't just live on the walls of our buildings. Our staff bring them into the world and live them on a daily basis, and it is a pleasure to support that."

Marchers will travel on 4th Avenue from Union Street to Denny Way in what is traditionally the largest pride parade in the Northwest. A Group Health truck and a banner will accompany team marchers. Group Health Permanente will sponsor a breakfast for marchers before the parade.

This is the first year Group Health has been an official sponsor of the parade.