Message from the Motor City

So we can celebrate virtually, asked our readers to share a photo with us from the first time they went to Pride. Submissions poured in from around the world, spanning every year from 1970 to 2019.

We’ve selected 30 of our favorite photos and stories so we can celebrate with a Pride In Pictures special series and we’ll be sharing them with you every day this month.

Name: 

Josh Chernos

Location:

Detroit, Michigan

Related: Pride in Pictures: Out in the daylight

What makes this photo special to you?

“This was Motor City Pride 2018, and it was the first time I was free to be myself in public after coming out. I got to spend the day with friends who love me for me.

“I want anyone reading this to know that even if you are going through a horrible time and you don’t think you will be loved if you come out, you are loved and you don’t have to change who you because someone told you should. You are worthy and you’ll find your chosen family. I know I did.”