Over the last few years, the country has seen substantial progress for the LGBT community, but a long journey still lies ahead. With that in mind, we asked local LGBT notables: Why does Pride matter today?

“We still need to remind people that we’re there and that we are a group of people that contribute to society in fabulous ways, and that we’re taking a moment out of time to recognize that, just as we would for anybody. We need to celebrate life. ... It’s nice to see a festival like Pride [so people can] realize that there are hundreds of thousands of people out there just like them.” —Lisa Pittman, DJ/founder and curator of Shedonism

“It’s so important to get the stereotype away from being so negative … and to make it mainstream. Vegas turned to a really great idea of changing the lights at the famous [Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas] sign. That’s a step forward.” —Larry “Hot Chocolate” Edwards, Divas Las Vegas cast member and mood director at Piranha Nightclub

“Pride is more important today, not so much for seeking out legal equality ... but it’s still very, very important for any minority community. They need to maintain a group of people, a place to go where you know the people there, you share a common experience, a common background, perhaps a common point of view. It’s just a measure of support and solidarity.” —Dennis McBride, local historian and director of Nevada State Museum