I felt love. Pure, unbiased, unconditional and supportive love.

There was only one other thing I felt besides the subtle effects of heat stroke at Denver's Pride Festival. I felt love. Pure, unbiased, unconditional and supportive love. I saw strength, and I saw pride, which is why this event and many others like it happen across the world in the first place.

The reminders of Orlando were everywhere. In speeches, on flags, in art, and on faces. The event was emotional with hugs and tears and a commitment from everyone there that fear will never stop them and hate will never win.

In a way, it felt historic, because it was historic. Not just because of Orlando, but because of all the other events that plague the news today — even the ones that don’t make it on the radar. It’s taking a step back and seeing how far we’ve come and how far we need to keep going. Pride isn’t just about the community standing on their own. It’s about we as a city, as a state, as a nation, standing together. 

Photos and story by Sam Keller