Thousands crowded downtown Colorado Springs on Sunday for Pridefest. The festival is in its 17th year and is meant to celebrate the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgendered community. This year's theme was "Equality Equals Paradise".
Thousands of people turned out to Pridefest for the music, the parade, and the displays of commitment. Reverend Dr. Nori Rost said, "We expect about 15 to 20 couples to present their vows to one another. And it's really a great affirmation of love and commitment with the community around to support them in that."
Governor Ritter signed a declaration in support of Sunday's event but Mayor Lionel Rivera refused because of the wedding ceremony. Organizers said they are disappointed by that decision, but it is an important part of Pridefest. Ryan Acker with the Pikes Peak Gay and Lesbian Center said, "Since same sex marriage is illegal in Colorado, it's that much more important to have weddings as part of Pridefest."
One attendee, a grad student from New York, had her car vandalized several months ago. It was apparently provoked by a rainbow decal on her car. Erin Davies said, "I was humiliated by it." She decided to put her shame aside and drive to more than 30 cities across the country for events like this. Davies said, "People aren't aware of how big a problem homophobia is and how much hate people have and I just think something needs to change with that."
Only a couple of protesters showed up with signs that quote Bible verses. Organizers made religion a major part of the event. They said God loves them, just as they are. Rost said, "I think Jesus would be marching with P-flag if he were here today."
Davies, whose car was vandalized, is filming her cross country trip for a documentary she is planning about her experience.
