Cincinnati Pride: A History of Celebration, Resilience, and Community

Cincinnati, Ohio, pulsates with a vibrant energy, particularly during the month of June. Why? Because it's Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, honor its history, and advocate for a more inclusive future. But have you ever wondered about the journey of Cincinnati Pride? It's a story of persistence, community spirit, and a continuous fight for recognition and acceptance.

A History Forged in Courage

The genesis of Cincinnati Pride, like many similar celebrations across the nation, is deeply intertwined with the Stonewall Riots of 1969. These pivotal events in New York City sparked a wave of activism and visibility. But the path to Cincinnati Pride wasn't a straight line. The first public display of Pride in Cincinnati occurred on April 7, 1973. Organized by the Cincinnati Gay Community, the parade was a bold statement of defiance and hope.

However, the path wasn't always smooth. There were periods when Cincinnati Pride faltered. The parade didn't become an annual fixture immediately. There was a gap in the early years, with a subsequent hiatus from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s. What happened? It was the absence of a dedicated organizing body and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights that made it difficult to sustain.

Chris Good, an independent organizer, spearheaded the effort to bring back the event. This resurgence of Pride was a critical moment, demonstrating the community's unwavering commitment. From its humble beginnings, the event moved to Northside, and eventually, Burnet Woods served as the launch point for the parade. The celebration's climax was at Hoffner Park for a festival.

A Fight For Non-Profit Status

In the early days, even forming LGBTQIA+ organizations wasn't easy. Powell Grant, a graduate student at the University of Cincinnati, tried to establish "The Greater Cincinnati Gay Society, Inc" as a non-profit in the early 1970s. But the Ohio Secretary of State denied non-profit status, arguing that promoting homosexuality went against the state's public policy.

This denial, upheld by the Supreme Court, was a significant setback. It highlighted the legal and societal obstacles faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. The fight for recognition and rights was not just a matter of parades and festivals; it was also a legal and political battle. Even facing arrest and prosecution, Grant and others kept fighting.

The Modern Cincinnati Pride Experience

Today, Cincinnati Pride is a vibrant, inclusive celebration that welcomes everyone. This year, the parade kicks off on Saturday, June 28th at 11 am, starting at 7th and Plum Streets. It's a kaleidoscope of colors, music, and joy, a testament to the progress made and the ongoing work to be done.

What to Expect

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect at Cincinnati Pride:

The Parade: A spectacular march through downtown, showcasing the diversity and energy of the community.
The Festival: A lively gathering at Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove, featuring entertainment, vendors, food, and fun for the whole family.
Community: An opportunity to connect with friends, allies, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrating unity and individuality.

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Pride-goer, you'll find something to enjoy. So, mark your calendar, bring your friends, and get ready to celebrate!

Beyond the Parade: Month-Long Events

Pride in Cincinnati isn't just about the parade and festival; it's an entire month of events. Here are just a few examples of what's happening around the city:

Pride Night at the Cincinnati Reds: Enjoy a fun-filled evening. Get a commemorative cap!
Hamilton Pride Festival: Family-friendly fun!
Pride Parties & Block Parties: Celebrate with music, food, drinks, and drag performances.

Check out the Cincinnati Pride website for a full schedule of events and details.

Why Pride Matters

Why do we celebrate Pride? Because it's about much more than just a parade. It's about:

Visibility: Raising awareness and showing the world that the LGBTQIA+ community is here, visible, and proud.
Celebration: Honoring the resilience, strength, and joy of the community.
Advocacy: Continuing the fight for equality, justice, and the full recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights.
Community: Providing a space for connection, support, and solidarity.

Pride is a reminder of how far we've come and a call to action for the work still to be done. It's a chance to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community, to learn about its history, and to celebrate its future.

Get Involved

Want to support the Greater Cincinnati LGBTQIA+ community? Here's how:

Attend Pride events: Join the parade, festival, and other activities.
Donate: Support organizations that are working to advance LGBTQIA+ rights.
Volunteer: Lend a hand at Pride events or other community initiatives.
Educate yourself: Learn more about LGBTQIA+ history and issues.
Be an ally: Speak out against discrimination and support LGBTQIA+ individuals.

By participating, you are contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. Your support makes a difference!

Celebrating the Future

Cincinnati Pride is not just an event; it's a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community. As you celebrate this year, remember the struggles of the past, the progress we've made, and the work that remains. Let's continue to build a future where everyone is free to live authentically and with pride.

So, come out, celebrate, and show your support. Cincinnati Pride is a testament to the power of community, the importance of visibility, and the unwavering pursuit of equality. We'll see you there!