The first pride march in New York city was held in 1970, one year after the Stonewall Riots. It started as a form of protest.

All these years later, the march continues in that tradition. But it’s also a celebration.

André Thomas, co-chair of NYC Pride, joined “News All Day” to share details about the event.

The theme of this year’s march is “Strength in Solidarity,” which Thomas says is necessary in light of so many anti-LGBT bills around the country.

Thomas says that the team is working to make sure people can have a “safe, happy, fun pride and a celebration of the joy and diversity of our community.”

While the march is on Sunday in Greenwich Village, “Youth Pride” is taking place the day before in Domino Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Thomas says that young people are facing a lot of the anti-LGBT attacks so it’s important “to give them a safe space to be themselves, free of bullying, and be with kids their own age just like them.”

Pride Island will be a big celebration featuring a performance by Christina Aguilera. That performance, along with others, will also take place in Brooklyn on Sunday afternoon and evening.

For more information, go to NYCPride.org.