Over 250 people gathered to express support for those who have engaged in the struggle for basic human rights.  We know that challenges remain.  LGBTQI+ persons around the world continue to face discrimination, violence, and other forms of persecution because of who they are and whom they love.

Utica is a welcoming city for all and as Mayor Robert Palmieri stated earlier this month when the Rainbow Flag was hoisted over city hall, “We have people who love and with love you conquer all.  You don’t put up barriers, you take barriers down.”

Last Saturday Utica lived the motto, “Love is love.”