Celebrating Pride Month in Cincinnati
Written by Susan Helmick, Graduate Assistant for the Graduate College
It’s June and Pride is taking center stage. It’s a time not only for revelry but also for reflection. While acknowledging the challenges encountered in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, Pride Month recognizes the resilience, diversity, and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community and everyone who stands in solidarity with the cause of equality.
In Cincinnati, the crown jewel of Pride Month is the annual Pride Festival & Parade on Saturday, June 22nd. This signature event features a vibrant parade that snakes through the city, culminating in a lively street festival at Sawyer Point Park. The fair boasts a marketplace with vendors, a wide array of food options, and activities for attendees of most ages. Don't miss the chance to catch the plethora of performances on multiple stages throughout the day, showcasing drag queens, local musicians, and DJs.
Last year, more than 400 Bearcats took part in the parade in support of UC’s LGBTQ+ community. Students who register for this year's group will receive a "Proud to be a Bearcat" T-shirt. Unable to make the parade? Join Bearcats at the "UC Pride GrillOUT @ The Graduate," scheduled for Thursday, June 20th, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Graduate Hotel. This event is organized in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ Center, the LGBTQ+ Alumni & Friends Network, and UC's LGBTQ+ Faculty & Staff Association. Be sure to register for the Grillout by Monday, June 17th!
Beyond the Parade: A Month of Celebration
The celebrations extend far beyond the parade and day of festivities. Throughout June, Cincinnati offers a diverse range of Pride Month experiences. Here are a few highlights to add to your calendar:
Free Concert with RuPaul's Drag Race Star: Join the vibrant Pride Brady Block Party on June 6th for a free Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra concert headlined by the iconic Monét X Change!
Immerse Yourself in Artistic Expression: Explore the works of talented LGBTQIA+ artists at the special opening of The 86 Pride Art Gallery on June 7th.
Catch a Game and Celebrate Pride: Cheer on the Cincinnati Reds or Florence Y'alls at special Pride Nights throughout June, complete with themed giveaways and events.
Pride for All Faiths: An interfaith service on June 20th welcomes all at the Pride Multifaith Celebration.
Tropical-Themed Solstice Party: Wrap up Pride Month and the longest day of the year with a festive LGBTiQi+ Solstice Celebration featuring cocktails and live music amid an exuberant tropical atmosphere.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Pride Month offers a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity and acceptance and the work that remains in creating a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. Most importantly, it's a chance to applaud everyone's right to let their authentic selves shine and commit to fostering environments of respect, understanding, and support in our communities, workplaces, and beyond. Happy Pride!