LA Pride 2017
"LA Pride was founded upon the spirit of activism – and today, continues in the footsteps of its founders. We believe in inspiring today’s generation to come together as a community and take a stand for acceptance and equality. Our goal is to empower the LGBTQ+ community and its allies with essential information, education, resources, events, content, and communications so that everyone within our community can not only find their unique voice, but also use it to inspire positive change for all." - LAPride.org
Over the weekend, I attended the LA Pride #ResistMarch in West Hollywood. In that crowd of people, I felt the safest that I've ever felt in Los Angeles. That same feeling was also present during the Women's March. There's something about being surrounded by others who truly believe in equality that creates an incredible atmosphere. Rather than being judged, everyone feels that they can be themselves and be accepted for who they are.
I think my favorite sign of the day was the one that said, "If Hillary was president, we'd all be at brunch." While LA Pride typically focuses on the LGBTQ+ community, this year was a little different. The focus was on the resistance and resilience that we all have against the leader of our country; and rightly so. I've said it many times before, and I'll say it again: stand up and speak. It takes courage, but that courage shows power and strength. Just like that well-known Warriors phrase (s/o to my boys for winning the NBA Championship!), there truly is STRENGTH IN NUMBERS. Use your voice.
We had bought these big California state flags that had a rainbow across the bottom, and multiple people asked to take photos with us or of us. It was a little bit of a struggle because of the wind, but we made it work. A couple people also took videos of us dancing. I've been trying to find those pictures and videos on social media, but it's hard since I don't know anyone's information. I'll update this post if I do find something.
All in all, I highly recommend checking it out next year. This was my first time, and I most definitely will be returning. I'm very appreciative to have grown up in the Bay Area surrounded by a community of acceptance. That is just one of the many reasons why I love California. It's necessary to support others and fight for what is right. I encourage you all to get involved and spread the word.