They’re not officially part of the Charlotte Mecklenburg School system, nor are they specifically affiliated with any state college or university.
They’re known simply as the Charlotte Educators Pride Parade group, and the organization is comprised of students, supportive parents, teachers, professors and others connected in one way or another to education in the city of Charlotte.
And, they are either part of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, or a supportive ally.
Charlotte Educators Pride Parade has a social media presence, but it is seemingly limited to a single Facebook group that lists around 260 members. In order to join the group you have to answer two questions: why are you interested in joining this group, and which school you are or were a staff member.
In the world we live in today, it only makes sense to take precautions and make certain your membership is verifiable.
According to information about the Facebook group (available to anyone who has a Facebook account), they were originally created in 2022.
Students and teachers Qnotes has talked to are elated the group exists and allows them the opportunity to network and participate in the Charlotte Pride festival.
Said one CMS teacher who declined to use their name but wanted to share their thoughts: “They’ve been around for a few years now,” he said. “And we’ve never had a problem. “It’s a great opportunity for students, educators and allies to come together in a very family-friendly environment.”
Despite the political atmosphere surrounding LGBTQ+ students and practically anything related to community culture being discussed in schools, CMS remains supportive of all of their students and discrimination or harassment of any sort is not allowed. While CMS did offer a post of support during Pride month in 2021 (shown), there is no evidence they have repeated a public endorsement since.
Regardless, and according to the digital flyer Charlotte Educators sent out, they will be participating in the Charlotte Pride parade again this year.
“Save the date Sunday August 17. Please join us,” the flyer reads. “Charlotte [Educators] will be marching in the Pride parade again this year. This is a family friendly event and all are welcome to participate. Children and students must be accompanied by an adult.”
