Catawba Valley Pride is inviting LGBTQ+ people and allies across the region to come together Sept. 19 for a celebration centered on visibility, connection and belonging. The annual Pride festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Catawba Farms, 1670 Southwest Blvd. in Newton. The family-friendly event will feature entertainment, food trucks and vendors.
This year’s theme, “Pride is the Power of commUNITY,” reflects an emphasis on bringing people together, including those who have never attended a Pride celebration before.
In the weeks leading up to the festival, organizers have used social media to encourage attendees to reach beyond their usual circles and personally invite others to join them.
“Somewhere nearby is someone who has never been to Pride,” organizers wrote in an Aug. 22 post, noting that some may be nervous about crowds, still discovering who they are or simply unsure about attending alone. “Sometimes belonging begins with somebody waiting for you at the gate.”
Organizers have also called on LGBTQ+ allies, including parents, siblings, coworkers, neighbors, pastors, teachers and friends, to attend and show their support. Catawba Valley Pride has been working to create that sense of community in the region since 2010 when the nonprofit was formed by a group of local volunteers. The organization serves the Catawba Valley and Unifour area and works to increase LGBTQ+ visibility while promoting unity, inclusion and awareness of sexual and gender diversity.
Its work extends beyond the annual festival through events, gatherings and community partnerships designed to create affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ people can feel seen, valued and connected. That mission is also reflected in the organization’s call for volunteers for this year’s festival.
In July, organizers described volunteering as more than helping put on an event. “It’s helping someone feel safe. Helping someone feel seen. Helping someone find community,” the organization wrote. Catawba Valley Pride takes place Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Catawba Farms in Newton. For more details, visit their website at https://www.catawbavalleypride.org/.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
