Last weekend was the pride celebration in Akron and… I wasn’t feeling it. I’d had a difficult week at work and the thought of doing anything that meant interacting with other humans seemed like too much.
Last year, the threat of a protest against the celebration got me moving – but this time, there was no such target. Right up until I left, I was on the fence about going.
But, I decided that sometimes it’s important to just show up. To be counted. To be recognized as being part of something.
So, I put on some of my Zips gear – gotta represent – and some comfortable shoes, and headed to the parade/march. I got there plenty early, found an out-of-the-way parking spot and then located a few people I know that were marching.
I asked if I could join them and they were happy to have me. I bought a couple of rainbow flags from a vendor – seemed the thing to do – and before long we were off and marching.
Or rather, walking. It was pretty low-key, but a nice day for a walk. The route took us about a mile and a half down Market Street in Akron and stopped at the park where the festival was being held. We waved to people along the way and chatted amiably as we walked along.
When we got to the park, I left the group and made a couple rounds through the festival area. I saw a couple of people I know and chatted for a bit, then got some lemonade and listened to the mayor make a speech. I listened to the music for a bit and then…well… I’m like “now what?”
I did the thing and then I was sort done doing the thing.
I didn’t want to wait for the trolley, so I just walked back along the parade route to my car and went home.
And… I cheated myself out of the event, having managed to attend, but not really be there. I should have hung around longer, listened to more of the music, found some booth with the people I wanted to interact with. Something.
Jim and I went back when he got off of work, but by then they were closing up shop.
I did it wrong. I went to pride with a sort of event checklist and once that was done, I forgot to really enjoy myself.
I’m glad I went and I’m glad I was in the parade and I’m glad – for what it was worth – that I was unofficially counted among those that attended.
But next year, I need to have a better plan and really try to be part of it. Maybe it’s time to volunteer and give something back.