Colors of Acceptance: My First Pride Experience

Attending my first Pride Parade with fellow members of the First Central Congregational Church was an incredibly affirming and joyous experience that highlighted just how welcoming and inclusive this congregation truly is. Known for its strong commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity, the church not only preaches acceptance but actively creates a supportive community where everyone can feel safe and celebrated. Walking alongside vibrant floats and cheering crowds, I felt a profound sense of belonging surrounded by people who share the church’s spirit of love and equality. The energy was infectious, and participating in the parade with the church group deepened my appreciation for how faith communities like First Central can play a vital role in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and fostering an environment where diversity is embraced wholeheartedly. This experience was not just a celebration of Pride itself, but also a testament to the power of solidarity and the meaningful impact of inclusive spaces of faith.

Eager to immerse myself in the vibrant spirit of the Pride Parade, I embarked on a quest to find the perfect rainbow-colored outfit that would truly capture the celebration’s joyful energy. I sifted through stores and scoured online shops, hoping to stumble upon something bold and colorful that would let me proudly express my support. To my surprise and slight disappointment, every attempt to locate rainbow-themed clothing came up empty—except for one unexpected gem: a quirky cat t-shirt adorned with a subtle splash of rainbow hues. Although it wasn’t the vivid, all-out rainbow ensemble I had imagined, this playful shirt beautifully embodied my unique personality alongside Pride’s message of inclusiveness, so I proudly wore it to the parade.

Early on the morning of the Pride Parade, excitement filled the atmosphere as everyone assembled at the church, their faces bright with smiles and eager anticipation. Loaded with decorating supplies, we boarded the church bus for our journey to Council Bluffs, the parade’s location. Upon reaching our destination, we dedicated time to adorn the bus, turning it into a lively, mobile tribute to love and inclusiveness. Colorful rainbow flags fluttered proudly from every corner, shimmering streamers wrapped around handrails, and hand-painted signs expressing messages of unity and acceptance adorned the sides. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie, as we eagerly worked together, adding finishing touches that made our bus not just a mode of transport, but a powerful symbol of pride. With the decorations complete, the bus stood ready to roll, shining with positivity and ready to inspire everyone along the parade route.

Despite the vibrant festivities swirling around me, I couldn’t shake off a lingering disappointment over my lack of rainbow attire; while others proudly donned colorful shirts, hats, and accessories, I felt my outfit was glaringly plain. Sensing my unease, a thoughtful friend approached and offered me a rainbow flag to wear as a cape. Instantly, I felt a surge of pride and inclusion as the brilliant colors billowed behind me, symbolizing unity and celebration. Wearing the flag transformed not just my appearance but my spirit—I walked taller, smiled wider, and immersed myself fully in the joyous atmosphere, realizing that sometimes, a simple gesture and a splash of color can make all the difference in embracing who you are.

As I marched proudly through the vibrant streets of the Pride Parade, draped in my flowing rainbow cape, I was truly amazed by the dazzling spectrum of gender and sexuality expressions surrounding me. Each participant was a living work of art, boldly defying traditional norms and celebrating authenticity in every hue and form. From flamboyant drag performers to softly elegant non-binary individuals, the parade was a breathtaking mosaic of courage, creativity, and love. The infectious energy pulsing through the crowd filled me with an overwhelming sense of unity and empowerment, reminding me that pride is not just a celebration, but a powerful declaration that everyone deserves to love and be loved exactly as they are. Wearing my cape, I felt not only seen but connected to an extraordinary community that embraces difference and champions freedom, making that day an unforgettable testament to human resilience and joy.

Attending my first Pride Parade was a transformative experience that marked the beginning of living my truth openly and authentically. As a married lesbian with two kids, it wasn’t always easy to embrace my identity fully, especially when juggling societal expectations and personal fears. Immersed in this lively and encouraging community that honors love, diversity, and strength, I found a newfound bravery to live with greater openness and authenticity, fully accepting every aspect of myself without any shame or doubt. The colorful floats, joyful music, and heartfelt stories I witnessed that day stirred something deep within me, breaking down the invisible walls I had built over the years. It reminded me that love in all its forms is powerful, valid, and worth celebrating—not just in private, but out loud and proud. Since that moment, I have felt more empowered to advocate for my family, connect more deeply with my children about our unique story, and live fully in a way that honors both my past struggles and present joys.

Leaving the parade, wrapped in my rainbow cape and surrounded by my church community, I carried with me an unshakable hope—a belief that through courage, solidarity, and faith, we can continue to build a world where everyone’s true colors shine brightly and proudly. The experience inspired me to become more active within First Central, to help foster even more spaces where families like mine could feel seen and supported. Pride was no longer just an event on the calendar—it had become a catalyst for living boldly and advocating for a world where every person’s identity is honored. And as I tucked my children into bed that night, I whispered a promise to myself and to them: we will always walk this path together, with courage, love, and pride lighting the way.