On Sunday, June 24th, I went to my first
pride fest. I not only went to pride fest, but I also had the opportunity to
participate in the pride parade with a family member who use to work for the
company that had a spot in the parade. I loved seeing all the support and
excitement of all of the St. Louis residents who came out to support the LGBTQ
community. As I was riding in the parade I couldn’t stop looking at all the
people clapping, cheering, and holding signs of support such as love is love,
or spread love not hate. During that time nothing else mattered and we were all
there to support each other and it was okay for us to be who we are. Being in
the pride parade was such a wonderful moment that I will always treasure. When I
came out at 21 I always had this goal of going to pride fest because it was a
way for me to celebrate who I am and I am so glad I was finally able to attend.
I know that identifying as part of the LGBTQ community
is becoming more accepting, but when you actually see that support and love
where you live it’s truly amazing and has made me extremely proud to be gay and
I can’t wait to attend next year.
