Pride in Pictures: A proud family portrait

The Penna family: Marc (left), Keith (back), Aidan (right), Lilah (front)
The Penna family at Charleston Pride, Sept. 14 2019: Marc (left), Keith (back), Aidan (right), Lilah (front). Photo: Provided by Marc Penna

So we can celebrate virtually, LGBTQ Nation 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: 

Marc Penna

Location:

Charleston, South Carolina

Related: Parades might get canceled, but Pride never will be

What makes this photo special to you?

“This is a photo of my first Pride, last September. I have 3 children, and came out in September of 2017 at 42 years old. It was the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life.

“I never imagined that I would be attending a PRIDE parade with my fiancé, Keith and my children, Aiden (15) and Lilah (8). Our son Carter (13) was not able to attend, but is very supportive. It was such a special time, allowing me to reflect on my journey and feel very grateful for where I was in life.

“Along with the children’s mother, Sarah, we have worked very hard to build a wonderful family. We put the children first and to try to instill in them that living your truth is a privilege we get to have here in the United States. We have had challenges, but what we have is very beautiful, and I believe this will encourage our children to go out into the world and make a difference.

“Thanks for all you do to support us all!”

The Penna family: Marc (left), Keith (back), Aidan (right), Lilah (front)
The Penna family: Marc (left), Keith (back), Aidan (right), Lilah (front) Provided by Marc Penna

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