Gay pride parade in Ohio led by ‘Star Trek’ actor

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

“Star Trek” actor and gay activist George Takei kicked off a gay pride parade in central Ohio.

Takei led the parade through Columbus city streets Saturday. The parade was aimed at encouraging equal rights for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Takei told The Columbus Dispatch that he wants the United States to be a country where everyone enjoys equality.

The parade included music and more than 150 floats with marchers and attendees wearing rainbow-colored clothing.

Some protesters carrying signs with red Xs over gay-rights symbols marched alongside the parade in protest. Some shouted Biblical passages regarding the definition of marriage.

The parade was part of a three-day Columbus pride festival celebrating LGBT pride and support.