Celebrate who you are with Pride

SANDUSKY — For many in Sandusky, Pride is an opportunity to celebrate love and individuality. The fourth annual Sandusky Pride festival continues downtown this weekend. During Saturday's Pride celebrations, Jim Obergefell will be recognized in honor of the six-year anniversary of the Obergefell V. Hodges Supreme Court case. Saturday is the anniversary of this case that guaranteed same-sex couples the right to marry. Obergefell will be honored at 4:15 p.m. on Saturday at the stage at Schade-Mylander Plaza in downtown Sandusky. "Sandusky has come a long way. But by being a smaller town, not many have been exposed to the LGBTQ community," Sandusky resident Megan White said. "Pride is a great opportunity for those who may not understand or be curious to come down and get a better understanding." Pride is also a chance to celebrate yourself, White said, regardless of your history. "Pride is love, love for myself, love for others, being able to be who I am," Curt Robinson said. "To walk down the street and be proud of who I am and not have to hide it." Robinson and his partner, Alex Gingery, who both live in Sandusky, are getting married in September. "Last year, I saw so many youths with their parents downtown for Pride. It was so good to see," Gingery said. "Counseling young minds is so important. Educating people is very important so they can see all aspects, or see something through our eyes." For White, this year's Pride celebration holds more significance. "This past year, a very close loved one felt safe enough to come out to me. Pride just holds a little bit more of a special place this year," she said. "I have so many loved ones who are in the LGBTQ community. I have seen them go through different obstacles, face hate. And we've come a long way, but we still have a long way to go." As a Pride supporter, White said the most important thing others can do is support their loved ones in the LGBTQ+ community. Don't be judgmental, love unconditionally and stand next to them when they need you, she said. Gingery and Robinson said they practice Pride year-round, but the month of June brings everyone together. "Seeing everyone come out and support Pride, and seeing all our friends and new faces (is great,)" Gingery said. "Times are changing, it's great to be alive in this time." The couple said many young people have reached out to them during the festival and through social media, asking how they found the courage to be themselves. "It's just a mindset. I have him, he has me. If people don't like that, then that's tough for you," Robinson said. Gingery said they answer their questions because it's important to encourage people to be themselves. "It gets better, keep your head up," Gingery said. Robinson said not to be afraid of who you are. The pride celebration is for everyone, White said. "If you've ever questioned it, come down and see what it's about," she said. "Celebrate yourself and who you love. You'll be glad that you did."