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LGBT Pride Weekend Kicks Off Today

Nearly 9,000 people participated in the San Diego Pride Parade in 2009. Parade marchers are seen here on July 18, 2009.
Jessica Plautz
Nearly 9,000 people participated in the San Diego Pride Parade in 2009. Parade marchers are seen here on July 18, 2009.
LGBT Pride Weekend Kicks Off Today
Balboa Park will be jammed with visitors this weekend. KPBS Reporter Erik Anderson tells us 150-thousand people are expected to turn out for the Pride parade on Saturday.

Balboa Park will be jammed with visitors this weekend. It is expected that 150,000 people will turn out for the San Diego Pride Parade on Saturday.

Pride weekend actually kicks off tonight with the Stonewall Political Rally in Balboa Park.

Pride spokesman Frank Sabatini says speakers will talk about two big issues that dominate news coverage of the lesbian, bi-sexual, gay, and transgender community.

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"Marriage equality and the full and total repeal of the military's 'don't ask, don't tell policy.' These political issues will be very relevant, particularly in the parade," said Sabatini.

Sabatini says the event includes a Friday rally and Saturday parade through Hillcrest. A festival style event at Marston Point in Balboa Park requires tickets.

Sabatini says he expects about 35,000 people to attend the ticket-only events on Saturday and Sunday.

It is the 36th year for the pride festivities in San Diego.