RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Thousands gathered in downtown San Jose on Saturday night as Silicon Valley Pride kicked off its 51st annual celebration along Market Street with music, dancing and community gathering.
The festival, held under the theme “Flourish and Bloom,” served as a prelude to Sunday’s grand parade. Attendees engaged in a range of festivities, including drag performances, food vendors and local artisan shops.
For many in attendance, the event represented a vital space for acceptance, visibility, and mutual support amid challenging times.
“We’re a part of everybody. We’re no different than everybody else, and I think that’s important,” said Tommy Soeung of San Francisco.
Harry Apodaca of Redwood Shores echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the significance of community celebration.
“Because it’s the opposite of despair,” Apodaca said. “Trans joy, queer joy is something we can do to resist.”
While LGBTQ+ pride events in nearby San Francisco often command the national spotlight, the festival gave the South Bay community its own dedicated stage to showcase creativity and unity.
“I’m obviously gay, and I am here to support Pride,” said Daniel Hernandez of San Jose.
Rabi Singh, also of San Jose, noted that local representation remains essential for the community’s presence.
“When it comes down to it, it’s about visibility,” Singh said. “It’s important, showing people here that we are present and celebrated and should be appreciated.”
The celebrations continue Sunday morning with the Silicon Valley Pride Parade on Market Street, scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m.
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