A large crowd is expected for the Hartford Capital City Pride Rally tonight, which is taking place just hours after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Friday that all same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry.
Connecticut Latinos Achieving Rights and Opportunities is hosting the rally at the Old State House, the site of the first, Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual and Transgender Pride celebration in the state 33 years ago, according to a news release.
"We are going back to a location that is historically significant for the LGBT community in CT. In 1982, when we were last assembled together here for a celebration, we didn't have all of the protections from discrimination, adoptive and marriage rights, like we do today. It took a lot of courage to be out on that lawn back then. Some of us wore masks to hide our identities. But this year, we'll celebrate who we are in our many races, ages, and religions and give tribute to the founders of the 1982 event," Hartford Capital City Pride Rally Committee Chair Dr. Richard Stillson said in a news release.
The rally is scheduled to take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the back lawn of the Old State House at 800 Main Street.
Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra will be one of the speakers, according to a schedule from his office.
Police said extra officers will be at the site to assist with foot and vehicular traffic.
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Following the high court's decision, Gov. Dannel Malloy ordered that the LGBT pride flag be placed at the governor's residence.
“This is a historic moment, and we should recognize and celebrate its significance. Equality, freedom, justice and liberty – all recognized by the Supreme Court in this ruling that moves our nation forward. I am proud to fly the pride flag at the Residence today,” Malloy said in a statement.
