Kicks Off Tonight At LIC Party
Queens Pride will celebrate the 22nd Pride Parade and Festival this Sunday, June 1, in Jackson Heights with a host of activities to promote pride among and for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community of Queens and beyond.
The theme, “A World of Pride,” celebrates the accomplishments of our global LGBT community in Queens while continuing the focus on the struggles that still need to be addressed in terms of human rights and the dignity of all persons worldwide.
This year, the parade’s Grand Marshals will include the New York City Council’s LGBT Caucus, comprised of Council Members Daniel Dromm, Corey Johnson, Rosie Mendez, Carlos Menchaca, Richie Torres and Jimmy Van Brammer. This is an unprecedented representation of New York City citizens by the LGBT community.
Also being honored is Melissa Sklarz, known for her leadership as president of the Stonewall Democrats and as a transgender member of our community, and Chutney Pride for their organization and outreach to Caribbean members of the LGBT community.
“Our Grand Marshals reflect how far we have come to be integral in our government, community and our visibility” says Chris Calvert, Co-Chair, Queens Pride.
The parade will kick-off at noon at 84th Street and 37th Avenue, ending at 75th Street. Marcus Woolen and Candy Samples will host a reviewing stand in front of the Jackson Heights Post Office, which is where the Queenie Awards are judged. The awards honor the ingenuity and enthusiasm of groups in their demonstration of LGBTQ pride and the theme of this year’s event.
The Festival begins at noon with nearly 100 vendors along 37th Road and from 74th to 77th Street. Two stages will feature entertainment throughout the day with performances by a variety of artists showcasing their singing, dancing and comedic abilities. The family friendly entertainment has been specially selected for this year’s event and is sure to have something for everyone to enjoy.
Tonight, Thursday, May 29, Queens Pride, New York City Pride, Brooklyn Pride, Staten Island Pride, Bronx Pride and Out Astoria will the Pride Kick-off Party at Studio Square in Long Island City (35-33 36th St.). The event will benefit ACQC (AIDS Center of Queens County) and their important efforts in supporting HIV-positive individuals.
The party will take place from 6 to 9pm with drink specials and entertainment throughout the evening. “ACQC is a long-time partner of Queens Pride, and we are very pleased that the Kick-off party will help in their important efforts,” says Hank Krumholz, Co-chair, Queens Pride.
Planning for the parade and festival begins each year in September and continues up to and beyond the first Sunday in June of the following year. The team of volunteer organizers meets on a regular basis to prepare the parade march, street fair, entertainment and advertising. Their dedication and hard work culminates in a colorful and vibrant display of pride that makes the day come alive. For complete information on Queens Pride, visit the website, www.queenspride.org or email, info@queenspride.org.
