Despite a 96-degree heatwave, thousands of people gathered in downtown Sioux Falls to celebrate the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
For Sioux Falls resident Kameron Nelson, Pride is a celebration of the freedom to love the way one chooses.
“Love is love. There’s a ton of people out here today celebrating this Pride parade — celebrating inclusion, celebrating equity, and that’s what we’re here to tell people.”
Blocks of cheering supporters and smiling faces filled the city’s downtown streets.
SDPB did not see any protestors at the event.
Macey Dunlap grew up in Sioux Falls. She says the turnout makes her proud.
“Sioux Falls showed up today—I’m really proud of our community.”
Dunlap wasn’t alone.
Mercedes Nelson of Sioux Falls says that despite the rhetoric and bills coming out of Pierre, the city is an open-minded place.
“People have this idea of South Dakota based on our political leadership, but, actually there’s a really strong and beautiful, vibrant queer community and art community — and I think this [event] just shows.”
The celebration included a parade, shows and vendors.
