LOUISVILLE, Ky. —Louisville’s annual pride festival hit a milestone this year, celebrating a decade of joy and strength in the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Cristal Encarnacion brought some color and joy to those at the Louisville Pride Festival.

“Folks walk around with a lot of religious injury or religious hurt,” said Encarnacion. “We are here to remind folks that God delights in who you are.”

Since moving to Louisville, Encarnacion said she’s felt embraced by the religious community here, as she can blend her faith with her LGBTQ+ identity. So, she uses glitter blessings to give back.

To Marissa Copler, people like Encarnacion are a reminder that the faith community hasn’t forgotten about the LGBTQ+ folks. Even as an atheist, she’s dressed as Jesus, her way of pushing back against festiv

See Full Page