Pride Month celebrations are in full swing across the country, and this week, Albany held its annual Capital Pride Parade and Festival. Thousands of people proudly marched down the street in their colorful attire, waving rainbow flags and shouting slogans of love and acceptance.

From the parade to the festival, the LGBTQ+ community and allies came together to promote acceptance, equality and love. The Albany parade grows every year and organizers say it's the largest pride celebration in the northeast outside of New York City and Boston.

What You Need To Know

  • Albany's Capital Pride Parade and Festival typically takes place in June, recognized as Pride Month worldwide

  • The celebration includes various events, such as live music, food vendors, and informational booths from local LGBTQ+ organizations

  • The parade route typically runs through downtown Albany, with participants marching and waving rainbow flags and other symbols of LGBTQ+ pride

  • The event is open to people of all ages and backgrounds and aims to promote acceptance, equality and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in Albany and beyond

Dusk D'Onofrio says he knew who he was, but it took him years to come out. Growing up in a small town where being different was frowned upon, he kept his true self hidden. But when he finally found the courage to come out, he was met with a mixed response. Some of his friends and family were supportive, but others were not.

"For years I was never able to come out,” D'Onofrio said. “And when I found out exactly who I was in high school, I was scared to come out and everything because I didn't grow up in the most supportive environment.”

Despite the challenges he faced, D'Onofrio refused to hide who he was. He says he was proud of who he was and wanted the world to know it. So when Pride Day came, he went all out. He donned a rainbow-colored outfit, waved a flag and shouted slogans of love and acceptance.

"I came out a few years ago and this is my first pride,” he said. “And I've been waiting for this forever. And so I'm going all out today. I want everyone to know that even if your family doesn't support you and you're watching this right now, stay strong. We love you, and you're not alone.”

Following the parade, the festival featured music, food and vendors promoting LGBTQ+ rights and resources, a celebration and reminder of the progress New York state and the society has made, as well as what remains to be done around the world to ensure equality for all people.

"I'm a teacher and I would like to make sure that all my children are included with everything,” festival attendee Mimi Forbes said. “So I just really enjoy the fact that we are progressing to the point where everyone's included.”

Whether it was your first time, or part of your annual celebration, those in attendance, like D'Onofrio, saw the joy on the faces of people who had struggled to come out and be themselves, and he knew he was part of something much greater than himself.

"Celebrating who you are and being as authentic as you can be and just letting everyone know just how proud you are,” D'Onofrio said. “No matter how much hate people say you're always love.”