San Francisco Pride Parade: Thousands celebrate love at the 54th annual event

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Thousands came to watch the Pride parade across the city. The 54th San Francisco Pride Parade is one of the largest LGBTQ celebrations in the world and this year was no different.

In a city that celebrates Pride 365 days a year, the last Sunday in June is always special. Alex and Christian came to feel the love on Market Street.

“It means being out here supporting everyone and seeing all the support that is out there for all of us,” Christian Huertas said.

The theme of the 54th SF Pride Parade was “Beacons of Love.” Many people here love light and having the chance to celebrate who they are.

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“She recently found out she is transgender. I’m proud of her. She is my best friend,” said Ty Bryant of Walnut Creek.

Bryant spoke about Agnes Bengel.

“It’s liberating to break out of the shell you’ve been trapped in for a while. Fortunately, in California, it’s accepted,” Bengel said.

The organizers estimate that 50,000 people took part in this parade.

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Actor and entertainer Billy Porter was celebrity grand marshal.

CORNELL BARNARD: “What does it mean to celebrate Pride in SF?”

BILLYPORTER: “Well, you know, this is the place where gays have been around the longest and where they’ve been fighting the longest, so I’m glad to be a part of it.”

“Pride means love. It means joy, it means happiness and I am so proud that we are a city that celebrates that every day of the year,” said San Francisco Mayor London Breed.

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ABC7 broadcast the Pride Parade live on television, and a digital sign on Market Street reminded everyone to smile for the cameras.

The weather was perfect for Destiny and Isa to celebrate their anniversary.

“San Francisco Pride is very special to us because this is where I came out three years ago and we started dating, so it’s our third anniversary,” said Destiny Lozano of Santa Rosa.