TUCSON, Ariz. -- Thousands of people showed up for Tucson’s Pride Parade and festival.
Many were reflecting on the evolution of the way Pride events are seen through the course of the last 50 years.
Back in 1969, drag queens threw a brick at the Stonewall Inn, as a statement for people to respect them. That triggered a three day riot and since 1970, pride has become a commemoration of the Stonewall riots.
The action of the drag queens sparked the modern-day LGBTQ rights movement.
“It’s a life changing experience,” said Javier Gonzalez, who told KGUN he came out 5 years ago.
Jordan Siebert, one of the Pride festival performers, says he is thankful for the transgender women of color who stood up for equality back in 1969.
“The people rose up and said, enough is enough and we are not second class citizens and we’re not going to be singled out like this. I just think that it’s so brave that the drag queens were the ones that said, heck no, we’re not doing this anymore,” Siebert said.
Since then Pride has taken on a new meaning.
“When you come here it’s like you’re not being judged. You’re welcomed and you blend right in,” added Gonzalez.
Ashley and Brandy Nix came out to the Pride Parade with their little boy. They say, this is one way of showing him he will always be loved and supported.
“It’s important for him to see the difference between families. Whether there are two moms or two dads, or a mom and a dad...and to see what kind of love is given to us by the community,” said the Nix’s.
Lucinda Holliday, the Tucson Pride Parade queen, says it is a true honor to hold this title. The first time she wore the crown was 21 years ago.
Lucinda tells KGUN every pride has grown more and more each year.
“The fact that we are accepted globally and not just personally within our own core is just a beautiful thing,” added Holliday.
It’s safe to say people from all walks of life came out to celebrate their pride.
“It means freedom and like people are now free to be themselves,” Lauren Dodds told KGUN9.
Lauren came out to the Pride parade with her mother and her best friend. She says it’s an event that allows people to celebrate who they are.
Jordan Depper-Love, who was crowned King of the parade, says this is an emotional time. Jordan is proud to represent the LGBTQ community.
“I will spell pride out for you. P is to be proactive, R for the respect, I for inclusivity, D for diversity, and E for the encouragement,” Deeper-Love said.
People of all ages came out to celebrate the Pride festival; an event where people came together for love.
“Love across the board just needs to win and we need to stop having so much fight against it,” Siebert told KGUN9.
The last day of the Pride Festival here in Tucson will be tomorrow. The event will be wrapping up with a closing party at Playground from 6pm to 11pm.
