Thousands celebrate Pridefest in Colorado Springs

Thousands of people are celebrating equality in Southern Colorado this weekend.

The 25th annual Colorado Springs PrideFest kicked off at America the Beautiful Park Saturday morning.

“We are getting together, showing our appreciation for all the people who struggled for us and all the hard work that generations did before us,” pride supporterJoshua Thurman said. “It’s away for everybody to show that they support, even if you’re not of the LGBT community.”

Colorado Springs PrideFest organizers said the mayor has officially recognized and welcomed the event for the first time in more than a decade.

In a letter to event organizers, Mayor John Suthers wrote, “The City of Colorado Springs recognizes the importance of diversity in our community and appreciates your decision to hold an event in our city.”

PrideFest volunteers said the mayor’s message is making this year’s event even more special.

“Many thanks to the mayor for recognizing pride, for recognizing community,” said volunteer coordinatorGeorgeann Kulton. “Pride is all about being inclusive.”

While supporters said there is plenty to celebrate, they believe there is still more work to be done in the pursuit of equality.

“It makes us feel more accepted. We still have a long way to go,”Thurman said. “There are still more boulders to knock down.”