Northern Nevada Pride returns, support needed year-round

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) - June is Pride Month, where LGBTQ+ communities near and far come together and celebrate the freedom to be themselves. After many canceled events last year, things are looking up for this summer.

“We’re all looking forward to being together again as safe as possible.”

Like pretty much everything else in life, COVID-19 impacted last year’s pride celebration worldwide.

“It’s about demonstrating freedom, liberty, equal rights,” said Sean Savoy, Founder and Director of Northern Nevada LGBTQ Leadership Alliance (NALA).

This year, the Silver State is bringing back its in-person parades and festivals. The CDC says fully vaccinated people don’t need to wear masks indoors or outdoors, and Nevada is following suit.

Savoy added, “If you’re not vaccinated, you know I think people are asking that people at least be respectful.”

Although these events typically bring joy and happiness, Savoy says it’s important to remember that the origins of pride were born out of pain.

“The Stonewall Riots are what really began the modern LGBTQ+ gay liberation movement back in 1969,” Savoy said.

To really make a difference, we need to keep the momentum going all year long.

Savoy added, “There are many, many organizations that you can support with your donations. There are certainly opportunities to volunteer for community organizations and even in your own corporation or organization, you might ask if there’s an LGBTQ employee resource group or pride committee.”

The fight for equality and inclusion is never-ending, but it’s one we can all fight together.

“I just want to encourage everyone who is an ally or maybe not sure if they’re an ally to just come and see, have an open mind and be supportive of your fellow person.”

The Nevada Interfaith Coalition for Equality and Inclusion (NiCE) is holding its 6th annual unity prayer service at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2021, at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd to remember the Pulse nightclub massacre in Orlando, Florida.

The Northern Nevada Pride Festival and CommUNITY Parade is happening on Saturday, July 24, 2021, in downtown Reno.

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