The first time I attended the Pride parade I was sixteen. I had been dating my girlfriend for a few months, and was excited to be part of an inclusive environment. I would not have to survey my surroundings in order to give her a kiss, or wrap my arm around her shoulders. This would be a happy adventure, one full of new experiences.

Before the parade began, exactly three protesters meandered down the street. They were dressed in neon pink shirts, carrying sings proclaiming “Homo sex is sin.” I was fearful that these protesters would grow in number, but thankfully they did not, and no one took them very seriously. In fact, a man carrying a sign with the word “Haters” in rainbow letters began following the men after the parade ended. During the parade, I watched a variety of companies and churches show their support. Candy and beads flew from every direction. There were drag queens and kings, men in leather, and people identifying as everything under the rainbow. This was a wonderful experience for my first Pride parade.

This year is the second year I have attended the Pride parade. I was able to spend time with girls in my sorority, as well as my girlfriend. Thankfully, I did not see a single protester, but something about this Pride parade shifted. The night before the parade, a shooting took place in Orlando Florida in the gay club Pulse. Fifty people were killed, and at least fifty people were injured. The suspect was also killed in the struggle by police, and therefore no one can seek complete justice for the event. This event was a horrendous act of hate and I cannot even imagine what would strike the decision to needlessly end fifty lives. I believe that everyone was a little more hesitant as we dressed for the day, as we wrapped our arms around our significant other’s shoulders, as we chose to be ourselves.

There were no protesters during this Pride parade, but there was an abundance of love. People carrying signs saying “Pray for Orlando” and “Love is Love” reminded us that love will always win even when it is challenged. Love does not discriminate, neither should people. No one chooses to be gay, bisexual, transgender, asexual, or queer in any sense. Everyone should live in the way that is comfortable to them, in the way they know they are. I am in love with my girlfriend, and have been for three years. I cannot change the way I am. I am happy with myself, and everyone deserves to feel this way. I will continue to be happy with myself and for the others that are no longer able to do so. Even on a day filled with such heartache, love is triumphant, love wins.