Capital Pride’s 38th and My SECRET

38.

That’s how many years Capital Pride, the annual LGBT pride festival held in Washington D. C. every year in June, is celebrating this month. Did you know that? 38 years? I didn’t.

The website says it was started as a one-day festival by Deacon Maccubbin in 1975. I’ve seen reports of this year’s attendance for the parade to be around 100K persons. To me, that says a lot about the vision of one team and the will of those involved and the understanding and acceptance of many. And coming full circle, it’s a testament to how our dreams and ideas can grow to change lives if we would give our whole selves to them.

My Secret: Well, I’ve been wanting to attend this parade for a while now, but I hadn’t been able to for this reason or that. I enjoy parades (and any large massive groups of people) in general and I’ve heard so much about the energy of the pride parade/festival and seen pictures to prove it. Anywhere that there’s energy… positive energy… I want to be there with camera in hand capturing joy and memories. What I saw mostly at this parade (outside of comedic impersonations of some of my favorite singers) were thousands of people having a good time and being united for love and acceptance… of others and self. That’s alright with me.

The Pictures: This year was my first year attending any pride event. I was able to get to the parade this past weekend right after it started (thus I didn’t have the best spot). Hopefully you enjoy the pics!

Today, I’m thankful for love. God bless.