LA's 'Pride in the Park' celebrates LGBTQ community and allies, ends festival with Mariah Carey - KABC-TV

Sunday, June 11, 2023 6:18AM

LA's 'Pride in the Park' celebrates LGBTQ community with Mariah Carey

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Mariah Carey sent her fans into a frenzy during her concert signaling the end of this weekend's "L.A. Pride in the Park," where people from the LGBTQ community and allies enjoyed food, dancing and a celebration of people being themselves.

"I am here for Mariah Carey..hahaha. She's one of the greatest American songwriters," said Zo Oshay, who identifies as non-binary.

Even though Mariah drove many to the celebration, for many others, the city's Pride celebration is ultra-important, as it signals to members of the LGBTQ community that they are safe to be who they are.

"Personally, I love being around my community, it makes me feel safe. It makes me feel comfortable. I like Fashion. I like showing my body, and around certain groups of people, I don't feel comfortable doing that. I don't want to be ostracized or attacked. And here, I can be myself," said N'siah Premeh, who identifies as queer.

Los Angeles' celebration of Pride draws more than just locals, showing the passion for Pride at a time when members of the community feel they are under attack.

"I came out in 1975, when I was 15. I saw a lot of hatred. I saw a lot of gay people beaten up just because they were gay. And it seems we're going all the way back. It's because we're accepting it. We have got to fight back now," said Gary McCormick, who is from Las Vegas.

The "L.A. Pride in the Park" celebration began on Friday, with fun booths and a concert headlined by Megan Thee Stallion.

The event was held at the Los Angeles State Historic Park, and was co-sponsored by ABC7.

On Sunday, the Los Angeles Pride Parade will be taking place through Hollywood, which is sponsored by and will be aired live by ABC7 starting at 11 a.m.