Delaware County’s first-ever Pride Parade in Media on Saturday was something many have waited their entire lives to see, writes Marcella Baietto for CBS 3 News.

“I burst into tears as soon as the parade started,” Giulia Deprophetis said. “I couldn’t even contain my excitement. I was so moved.”

Hundreds gathered to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.  The parade lasted less than an hour but was embraced enthusiastically as flags of all colors were waved and groups marched along State Street.

Courtney Rodriguez, who grew up in Delaware County, said the parade had special meaning for her.

A year ago she came out as pansexual.

Growing up in Delaware County, she didn’t feel supported, Rodriguez said.  A Pride Parade back then could have made all the difference at a time when she felt she needed to stay closeted.

“To have a celebration in our small community, says to everyone here, young and old, ‘Hey, you’re welcomed and accepted to be exactly the way you are right here. You don’t have to go anywhere,'” Rodriguez said.

Now she’s passing support down to her non-binary 8-year-old.

Read more about Delaware County’s first Pride Parade that took place Saturday in Media at CBS 3 News.

The story of the Pride Parade.