ROUND ROCK, Texas — Round Rock hosted its second annual Pride Festival on Saturday at Centennial Plaza.
As many braved the Texas heat to show their pride, those in attendance enjoyed a variety of performances.
Lkira Mctier, who attended the festival with her son, said she's part of the LGBTQ+ community and came out in support not just for herself, but to set an example.
"I didn't have that support," Mctier said. "I just want him to know that even if he's not part of the community, just to know that being yourself is just everything."
The festival comes after Gov. Greg Abbott recently signed legislation that bans transgender youth from having access to transition-related care, although it could face legal battles before it's set to take effect on Sept. 1.
Nico Ramsey is part of the Human Rights Campaign, which advocates for the LGBTQ+ community nationwide. He attended the Round Rock Pride festival and said despite the legislation, his group will remain focused on making sure the community has a voice.
"We're not going anywhere. Queer people will continue to gather. We're still going to be in your state. We're still going to be advocating for our rights, and until the Legislature gets their act together, we're still going to be here. So you can write as many bills as you want," Ramsey said.
"There will always be someone out there who wants to make you feel like you should be erased," Ramsey added. "Shine brighter than ever because that's what you're put on this earth to be."