SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The city of Springfield held its fourth annual Pride Parade in its downtown region.

"Loud and proud" pride celebrations come from a history rooted in oppression. Back in the early 1900s, same-sex acts were illegal in every state except Illinois, and businesses were shut down for employing or serving gay people.

In June of 1969, there were a series of riots, protests, and police raids in New York City, particularly outside the Stonewall Inn. Years later, it caught the attention of U.S. presidents to make this month official to support LGBTQ+ rights.

"It means support, it means love, it means being loud, it means get your message out there and tell the world who you are and be unapologetic about it," said Taurean Bethea, Executive Director of the Springfield Pr

See Full Page