SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (WRGB) — The thirteenth annual Schenectady Pride event marked the beginning of Pride Month on Sunday afternoon, drawing crowds with food, games, and music. Sonia Sandoval, Schenectady Pride Chair, emphasized the event’s inclusive spirit, saying, “What we’re trying to do is encourage everyone to come out, have a good time, share, be happy together.”
The event welcomed all attendees, regardless of identity, with Schenectady resident Raelynn Tucceri expressing appreciation for the community’s warmth. “Honestly, it’s been welcoming,” Tucceri said. “It’s like, I’ve kind of been inside and I’m an agoraphobe. I just really like it here. It’s like, they’re nice.”
This year’s Pride carries a deeper significance for some participants, who feel their community faces increased hostility in the current climate. However, Sandoval remains steadfast in her commitment to advocacy. “Pride was a riot, and that was the way we were facing so many injustices,” she said. “Right now, we’re going through that process again. It’s a little bit unbelievable that we haven’t made as much progress as we should have. But what we’re doing today is good. Everyone is aware that fighting for rights is something that we’re going to continue.”…