​To say I was nervous for Pride this year was an absolute understatement. With the protesters doing everything to block events and demonize homosexuals and their allies, I was never sure what to expect. I was apprehensive and more than a bit nervous when I arrived at the plaza, but shortly after, all of my fear and trepidation just floated away.

​True, the protesters were there, but you could hardly notice them over the music and cheers and love emanating from the attendees. The sense of community and togetherness was almost overwhelming. There were drag queens, girls in mesh bodysuits, boys in just their underwear… I began to feel over-dressed in my star-spangled leggings and tank shirt. You could see people hugging and posing for photos with complete strangers, because that’s simply what the event did: it united us as a community.

​A personal highlight for me was seeing the US Embassy’s booth with a cut-out of President Obama and the First Lady Michelle. People from all over the world were crowding to pose with the POTUS and FLOTUS, and I caught myself tearing up several times throughout the day when I thought about how much work it took to make it to this point in the world.

​It did break my heart to see all of the police officers though. It was a hot day and I’m sure they weren’t thrilled to be standing there in uniform and carrying heavy riot shields. However, the did their job well and if there were serious incidents, they managed to keep them from the general public.

​Ultimately, it gave me hope. It gave me hope that one day, everyone will realize that people are just people. It gave me hope that no matter the country, we’ll be able to embrace each other openly and without fear. And it gives me hope that next year will be even bigger and better.

photos by:
Ling Ling
Soren
Paul
Mark