[PHOTOS] San Diego Pride celebrates its 50th anniversary

A lot of progress has occurred since the inception of San Diego Pride in 1974.

Pioneers such as Kathy Kozachenko, Elaine Noble, and the iconic Harvey Milk were the first queer politicians to be elected into office, paving the way for the likes of Pete Buttigieg and Danica Roem. The advent of medication like Truvada and Descovey has reigned in the menace of HIV/AIDS that ravaged the LGBTQ+ community for decades. The Supreme Court case of Obergefell v Hodges gave same-sex couples the legal right to marry.

While this weekend’s 50th anniversary of SD Pride was a celebration of the city’s queer community and its myriad accomplishments, it was also a reminder that there are still many battles to be fought.

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“The past few years, we have seen queer people demonized, safe spaces threatened, and ugly legislation drafted. This fall, when I was on tour, I was advised against performing in drag while in the south,” said San Diego Pride headliner Todrick Hall, referencing the recent slew of anti-drag legislation occurring in conservative states.

“But whether it’s Pride month or not, queer people have historically stood tall and stood strong when we were under attack. As an out, queer, black artist, who uses drag to express myself, I am honored to be making history now at San Diego Pride, to entertain and stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community in San Diego and across the world.”

Another San Diego Pride performer, Justin Renaissance, echoed this sentiment.

“While there are still haters protesting and trying to dim our lights, as a community, our lights shine brightest during Pride celebrations and parades, and we conquer the hate with abundant love,” said the local musician after his Sunday performance.

The notion of love was a recurring theme that afternoon. Paris Quion, a prominent local trans drag queen, cited it again during a speech.

“I want you all to open your hearts as wide as you open your legs,” Paris joked to the crowd.

We’ve snatched some of our favorite images from this year’s San Diego Pride for those who missed out on this love fest.