In a world that can sometimes feel less than inclusive, Pride month has huge value to the LGBTQ community. All throughout sunny June, cities across America are covered in rainbows and glitter, and there are so many fun opportunities to show your pride and celebrate who you are.

For many queer people, especially those exploring and coming to terms with their sexuality, their first Pride is a big step toward finding their place in the community (also, there’s the aforementioned rainbows and glitter — what more could you want?!)

To celebrate this, we were lucky enough to partner with the It Gets Better Projectto kick off NYC Pride. And, while we were at it, we asked a few guests to share stories from their first Pride. Here’s what they had to say… Read more via Seventeen