LGBTQ community celebrates 28th Annual Austin Pride Festival

Members of the LGBTQ community kicked off celebrations at the Austin Pride Festival Saturday. 

For many the 28th Annual Austin Pride Festival is a place to be yourself. 

"I am the L in LGBTQ, a very vibrant visible lesbian," said Gabby Samaripa.

"Not everyone is comfortable being themselves everywhere and spaces like these people can really explore themselves and feel comfortable," said Gibran Lule, volunteer with Equality Texas.

The festival took place at Fiesta Gardens attracting thousands of people. It's the largest annual LGBTQ advocacy and fundraising event in Central Texas. It gives everyone access to non-profits and organizations that promote equality.

For many, pride represents a rainbow of things including receiving basic liberties, that for some aren't so basic when you don't have them. "Benefits I think in Texas workplace equality because our laws are pretty weak on that and federal laws aren't covering it unfortunately," said Lule.

"Being able to live free and not have to be scared or in the closet or anything like that," said Christopher Carr.

Allen Roark and his family attended the festival in support of their daughter who identifies as part of the LGBTQ community.  And stand behind a message of equality and acceptance for all. "I don't think anybody should judge anybody for anything because we are all equal period. And trying to single anybody out and make them less for any reason is wrong in my opinion," said Allen Roark.

Members of the LGBT community said there has been progress over the years when it comes to acceptance. But many of them believe there's still work that needs to be done. "Like the fact that some people can't get spouse benefits I feel we can do a lot to improve that," said Gabby Samaripa.

Following the festival was the Austin Pride Parade, marchers made their way from the Texas State Capitol down Congress Avenue. The free  parade wrapped up at 11 p.m.