I had some goals in mind when I went to my first pride this year.
- I hoped to see some of my friends
- I wanted to get a sense of the community
- I thought I’d get a measure of the protestors
- And get some “fair food” and merchandise, of course
- And rock out in my kilt, Geek socks, and coordinated akron t-shirt.
I got there a little after the festival started and made a slow circuit of the vendors. I kept an eye out as I walked around for my friends and managed to find a few – including the most awesome of my co-workers. I also kept a look-out for the protesters – but there were none to be found.
As I walked around, I was struck by how happy everyone was to be there. There were drag queens – of varying degrees of skill – and a few of us brave souls in kilts. There were people on stilts and parents pushing kids in strollers. There was food of all kinds and an impressive Elton John cover artist.
Each time I ran into someone I knew, there was surprise and delight for both of us. And a feeling of welcome.
There were a surprising number of banks there with booths set up. And quite a few churches as well. Along with the t-shirt and art vendors, there were a few political candidates with booths – perhaps feeling a little out of place next to the leather harnesses.
And then there were the Log Cabin Republicans. My mother usually says “Bless their hearts,” before commenting on someone’s character flaws. I would have skipped that and gone right to “what a bunch of ignorant ass-hats,” but I just ignored them.
My friend Jenny and I got some doughnuts and listened to some music before she needed to leave. I made another circuit and bought a wristband and a necklace.
And after I took my measure, I was on my way.
It was impossible not to fit in. All ages, races, sexual orientations, and gender identifies – and quite a few religions.
But no protesters.
Love won out that day.