PHOTOS: Portland Pride means 'living true and honest to yourself'
As the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival continues, people attending the celebrations say it's a great time for people to show "love" to one another.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival continues, people attending the celebrations say it's a great time for people to show "love" to one another.
During the Pride Parade earlier Sunday in downtown, familiar faces could be seen greeting the crowd, including KOIN 6 News anchor Jeff Gianola and emcees Emily Burris and Travis Teich. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek was also among the state and local leaders joining the celebration.
KOIN 6 News spoke to attendees who said Pride is all about embracing your true self.
Governor Tina Kotek (wearing a black T-shirt) poses with someone for a picture at the Portland Pride Parade. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
Portland Pride Parade brings festive spirit to downtown. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
A Portland Pride Parade attendee speaks with KOIN 6 News. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
Brett Robertson attends the Portland Pride Parade. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
KOIN 6 News staff participate in the Portland Pride Parade. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
KOIN 6 News anchors Travis Teich (left) and Emily Burris emcee the Portland Pride Parade. July 21, 2024 (KOIN). 
Portland Pride Parade brings festive spirit to downtown. July 21, 2024 (KOIN).
"I love to just be myself, be open, be free, living true and honest to yourself is what this is all about, that expression is so exciting to see," said Brett Robertson, who is celebrating his first Portland Pride.
"With all the problems going on in the country, if we ever needed to be together and express ourselves and love each other, this is the day for that and it's an amazing thing," another parade attendee told KOIN 6 News.
Drag superstar and Portland native Jinkx Monsoon is headlining the evening’s celebrations.