SPOKANE, Wash. — A vibrant and lively energy took over Riverfront Park on Saturday for the Spokane Pride Parade and Festival.
The celebrations were strong, despite protests that occurred later in the day.
Spokane Pride organizers enhanced security measures for the festival. “Angels” led the parade, which were volunteers meant to block the noise from any protesters and maintain order.
All the safety concerns didn’t stop the community from enjoying the event.
“I know there’s a lot of misconceptions people have about Pride… and it’s like, it’s not really that. You get to see families come together and be. I get to hold my wife’s hand in public and not be worried,” said Bella Kabel, who has been coming to Pride since gay marriage was legalized ten years ago.
For Kabel, seeing the turnout and joy take over Riverfront Park was reassuring.
“It’s good to know our community is still here, even through everything and still here to be together and have that love and joy through everything,” she said.
The family-friendly event had plenty of things to enjoy with several vendors, food trucks and entertainment.
Organizers say the event is designed to showcase Pride within both the LGBTQ+ community and Spokane.
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