6 days ago
Shepherdstown gearing up for Pride parade, month of festivities
SHEPHERDSTOWN, (DC News Now) — This year's Pride parade, which is kicking off Pride Month for Shepherdstown, is the first ever in the town.
Organizers say it's about equality and saluting trailblazers who support the LGBTQ+ community.
Festival planner Scott Turner Schofield says Shepherdstown has warmly embraced the month of Pride activities starting this weekend.
'When you fly the rainbow flag, people feel safe, and they want to come, and they want to feel welcome,' said Schofield. 'Everyone is welcome. The community has just come out like gangbusters. The whole parade has been a labor of love by the community.'
Significant road closures for WorldPride Parade, Block Party
Joan Moossy moved to Shepherdstown from New York City and is organizing the parade and kickoff of Pride activities in the weeks ahead.
'Everyone in Shepherdstown has really gotten behind it,' Moossy said. 'Particularly the businesses who have come up with their own LGBTQ-oriented events and making it sort of a whole gay weekend in Shepherdstown.'
'The community has really been fantastic. We've gotten a lot of great feedback. A lot of local businesses have been reaching out and have been supportive,' said Heather Wallen, who runs a popular performing arts program in town
'It's a real community effort,' Schofield explained. 'The banners you see were handmade by the people right here in the community. This is a very special moment to be having the first parade. It says a lot about community courage, community love and acceptance.'
'We can make this world a place where all young people can do what they like with their lives and feel they can have success in life,' Moossy said.
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