On Saturday I posted a blog (read it here) about Pridefest being canceled. I knew of only two events still scheduled. Now, thankfully, Anne Halliwell, who was involved in the planning, e-mailed an update, and there's a lot to check out as you celebrate this weekend. Before the schedule, tho, I'd like to reshare something from my Saturday blog. It's something Erick Foss, the 2018 Pridefest chair, said here...

“We ... remain committed to Southeastern Minnesota’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a robust plan to usher in a new and fresh perspective...Over the coming months, we will launch our vision for a more inclusive queer Rochester which will include events throughout the year. If you are interested in participating in this new Rochester, please contact us. We cannot build a movement without you.”

The emphasis is mine. Events that bring us together take so much time and effort, and they cannot be done by just a few for the many to enjoy. Please, hear that sentence, and ask what you can do to help.

Now, to the schedule!

HOW CAN MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY CELEBRATE?

  • July 19: Dr. Julia Serano at Mayo Clinic - 5-6 p.m. Public lecture: “‘Biological Sex’ and the Pathologization of Transgender People.” More info HERE.
  • July 20: “Rebel With a Cause” Youth Prom at Rochester Public Library - 6:30-9 p.m. For LGBTQ+ students all over Minnesota, grades 7-12. More info HERE.
  • July 20: Drag Show - “Dragagonza” Drag Show at the International Event Center - 6:30-11:30 p.m. Come out and support the queer community this weekend! The 18+ show begins at 8:00 p.m. with the Rochester Girls. More info HERE.
  • July 21: Celebrate Pride with Rochester Public Library - 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Join a dance party on the patio, check out LGBTQIA+ reads on the book bike, and add to the Pride mural at this family-friendly event. More info HERE.
  • July 21: Pride Potluck Picnic at Peace United Church - 12-3 p.m. Bring a dish to the front lawn of Peace United! Rain location in Hall F. More info HERE.
  • July 22: Peace United Church, First United Church, and United Methodist will hold LGBTQ-friendly services Sunday morning. More info HERE.
  • July 23: It’s another Queer Dance Party! Canvas and Chardonnay hosts the second event from 7-11 p.m. Come out for LGBTQ+ artists, vinyl DJ, and a cash bar. More info HERE.

Listen to James Rabe 6a to 10a on Y-105 FM, and 2p to 6p on 103.9 The Doc.

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