Richmond's Stonewall on Stonewall marks 57 years of LGBTQ+ history

RICHMOND, Va. — Dozens gathered in Richmond's Woodland Heights neighborhood Sunday for the Stonewall on Stonewall Pride event, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with music, food, kids' games and a colorful parade.

The celebration carries deep historical significance. The Stonewall Riots of 1969 sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, making this year's festival its 57th anniversary.

Del. Rae Cousins and Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi were among those who attended and delivered remarks at the event.

Eli Torres, who works at He She Ze and We — a nonprofit that supports trans and non-binary people — said the event reflected the importance of visibility and community.

"I feel awesome about what's happening in Richmond," Torres said. "We are a nonprofit that supports trans and non-binary people. We show up to pride events all over the state... being visible and showing that we have pride. We are so grateful for our community and celebrate our community every day."

Torres said joy is especially meaningful this year.

"So much joy and it's so important to have joy in moments of uncertainty," Torres said.

Torres encouraged community members to support Pride events in whatever way they can.

"Show up for these events, show up for the community, show up in ways that are not just physical but monetary and all of the things. Show up for your people, show up for your community," Torres said.