Hundreds March for LGBTQ+ Rights at Pride Rally in Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — Hundreds gathered for a Pride rally on Saturday, marching for LGBTQ+ rights in Utah. About 700 participants cheered as they made their way from the Utah State Capitol to Washington Square Park, proudly carrying a giant Pride flag.

“It’s my favorite day of the year,” said Eli Archer, a resident of Lehi, who attended the rally. Archer, who identifies as pansexual, shared that the event is a celebration of acceptance.
“I realized that it’s okay to be who I am, especially growing up in Utah and in an area where it’s not always accepted to be gay or part of this community,” he added.

As the rally proceeded, many participants voiced their concerns over recent anti-trans laws in the state, which impact healthcare, school sports, and housing access. Notably, in March, Utah became the first state to ban pride and transgender flags at government buildings and schools.

Kiara Smith, a resident of Tooele County, attended the rally with her two daughters, who waved Pride flags while seated on the grass. Smith emphasized the importance of demonstrating love and acceptance to her children.
“Show up and show them and myself that it’s okay to love who you love and be who you are,” she said. “Not just showing up when it’s convenient or fun but showing up even when it’s scary.”

The crowd chanted together, “Hey hey, oh oh, transphobia has got to go!” as they marched in solidarity.

The Utah Pride Center and Equality Utah organized this annual Pride Rally and March, which precedes the Pride Parade through downtown Salt Lake City. This year, the parade is set for Sunday, June 8, beginning at 10 a.m. at 100 South and West Temple, concluding at 300 South and 400 East. Attendees should prepare for road closures.

“Be proud of who you are, love is love, love who you want to love, and that there will always be a community who will support you and love you, and that you’re never alone,” Archer proclaimed in a closing message. “Happy Pride!”