The early morning massacre at an Orlando gay nightclub left a somber mood in the air on Sunday’s closing day of LA Pride. On Sunday after the Florida shooting, authorities in Santa Monica, California intercepted an armed suspect equipped with explosives reportedly bound for West Hollywood’s festivities.
Police initially considered canceling Sunday's 46th Annual LA Pride Parade, but rather than allowing hate to win, thousands flooded the streets in solidarity with the slain victims.
Now that we've finished our moment of silence, it's time to be loud. #pride2016 #LAPRIDE pic.twitter.com/YRAjqdtirG
— RJ Aguiar (@rj4gui4r) June 12, 2016
From live musical performances to the bright and colorful art installations, thousands in the LGBT community and supporters gathered together in solidarity, sorrow, and defiant celebration.
“When our community comes under attack, what do we do?” some shouted, with others yelling the reply, “Stand up, fight back!” attendees chanted.
Highlights from Pride included performances by Lion Babe, Trina, and newcomer Daphne Willis. “To me it’s the celebration of love and celebrating the different ways people love each other,” Willis told MERRY JANE.
Rock out to her new track “The Struggle is Real” and check out more pics from LA Pride in our photo gallery!
