Hundreds of people gathered in Santee on Saturday for the Santee Pride Walk and Festival, a community event focused on visibility, inclusion and support for LGBTQ+ residents and allies.

According to NBC 7 San Diego, the event was hosted by Santee United Methodist Church and brought together LGBTQ+ community members, allies, families and nonprofit organizations. NBC 7 reported that it was the first Pride celebration of the season in San Diego County.

For Santee residents, the turnout marked a visible East County start to Pride Month activities that often center on larger coastal or downtown events. Holding the celebration locally gave families and neighbors a way to participate without leaving their own community.

The event also put a spotlight on faith and community groups that are helping make space for local conversations around belonging and support. More regional Pride events are expected across San Diego County in June.

Source: NBC 7 San Diego — https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/santee-pride-draws-hundreds-of-people-for-lgbtq-walk-faith-and-community/4030532/