When 10News spoke to Constance McMillen, she proudly showed her shirt which displayed a message against Proposition 8.

"It's really hurtful. It was a violation of my rights," McMillen said about being barred from attending her senior prom.

With help from the American Civil Liberties Union, McMillen went to court and won. The victory prompted her high school to cancel the event.

A private prom was held, but McMillen said she was invited to a fake prom.

"We walk in and there were six people there, and I said, 'This is bull ...' I can't really describe the feeling. I wouldn't wish that on my enemies," said McMillen.

In May, a San Diego-based civil rights group co-sponsored a second chance for McMillen in Mississippi.

"Here's a woman who didn't shy away from the hatred. She simply wanted to go to prom," said A. Latham Staples of the Empowering Spirits Foundation.

McMillen said, "I felt really comfortable because I knew I could be myself."

That self-assurance has grown as her story has captured the attention of celebrities and made national headlines.

This weekend, she will make appearances at youth events at the San Diego Pride Festival.

"I want people to know my story and inspire others to stand up for themselves," said McMillen.

As for the next chapter of her story, McMillen said she planned to attend college in Tennessee and graduate school in Southern California, possibly San Diego. She cited the area's tolerance and diversity.

"I will be back here someday," said McMillen.

McMillen said she hopes to get a graduate degree in psychology so she can work with gay youth.