(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) This weekend, multiple protests took place across Missouri in support of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, who expressed concerns that their rights are under threat due to bills advancing through the House and Senate that would restrict LGBTQ+ rights and accommodations.

In St. Joseph, over a hundred protesters gathered, determined to make their voices heard as part of Zero Discrimination Day taking place on March 1st.

Dakota Allen, an organizer of the protest, urged the LGBTQ+ community to take action both during and beyond the demonstration.

"We need to make sure that this tangible action continues past today. Obviously, as awesome as it is for us to come together and get loud one time, there are still legislative attacks coming," said Allen.

Among the proposed legislation is Senate Bill 212, which would restrict restroom access in schools for transgender individuals, allowing usage only based on their biological sex.

Senate Bill 249 would prohibit gender-affirming healthcare for individuals under 18 years old.

These protests aim to raise awareness about these bills and send a message to government officials and the general public that the LGBTQ+ community is taking action.

"We're not going away. And the more you do what your large donors want you to do, come after us, the more we're going to be here. We are going to hold you accountable," said Ron Johnson, a St. Joseph native and member of the LGBTQ+ community.

The protests included not only members of the LGBTQ+ community but also allies who wanted to show their support.

One such ally was Carla Willis, whose daughter came out as queer when she was 16.

Willis shared how the experience changed her perspective and strengthened her resolve to support the community.

"Allies can use their voices, and sometimes they're heard louder because they're not dismissed as just being part of the community. So I have become a mama bear for anyone and everyone who wants it or needs it," said Willis.

As anti-LGBTQ+ legislation continues to be introduced in Missouri, protesters say they will keep fighting and ensuring that their presence and voices remain heard.