Ashland's Pride Parade, now celebrating its fourth annual iteration, transformed the downtown area as about 50 enthusiastic participants strutted their colors and messages of acceptance.
Beginning at Corner Park, the parade trekked down Main Street before returning, with onlookers cheering and waving various rainbow flags.
Among the participants was Alexandra Emmons, who shared with pride her family's commitment to attending the event for the third consecutive year.
"My favorite part is being able to support the community—helping them feel celebrated and visible," Emmons expressed, underscoring the significance of such gatherings.
Another participant, Opal, found joy connecting with fellow queer individuals, stating, "We have even gotten people from Columbus coming here. It makes one small space safe in Ashland for them."
Opal emphasized the warmth of the event, noting, "Everyone is kind to everyone else, and it’s not transactional; people are just kind."
Once the parade concluded, the celebration continued at the Waters Edge Event Center, which buzzed with vendors, food trucks, and music provided by a DJ.
Haley Newhouse, who serves as the vice president of Ashland Pride, is excited about each year’s developments and acknowledged the importance of community involvement.
“We’re thrilled to have new craft, food, and drink vendors joining us as always,” Newhouse conveyed, highlighting the variety offered during the festivities.
The event also included health initiatives, with Third Street Family Health Services offering free HIV testing and voter registration opportunities.
Newhouse explained how planning for the parade kicks off every January, which includes coordinating with the venue, sourcing volunteers, and inviting local businesses to participate.
"It’s about being involved with the community and creating sponsorship opportunities,” she added, reflecting the event's deep-rooted outreach efforts.
A vendor at the parade, Kelley Fox from Faith Choice Ohio, expressed joy at participating for the first time, indicating the broader inclusiveness of the event.
“We are a statewide organization, which means we can’t be everywhere, so it is nice when we get to be somewhere like this," Fox said enthusiastically.
Simkah, representing Kosher Kind Love, offered another perspective about the community spirit during the event, stating, "Everyone is loving. We lack unity as a society, but here, everyone loves and accepts one another.”
Before the parade festivities began, yoga enthusiasts gathered for a complimentary morning yoga session at Studio Rise, promoting well-being and mindfulness.
The vibrant celebration continued with vendors showcasing local crafts and non-profits highlighting their services until early evening, culminating at the Eagles club for the after-party.
This after-party featured live performances and raffle baskets, aiming to promote community spirit and support local causes.
Tickets were available to those who donated either money to Ashland Pride or items to local animal shelters, reinforcing the message of community care.
Are you ready for the next Pride event? Gathering like this brings together many people from different backgrounds to connect and celebrate their identities, fostering unity and acceptance.
From lively performances to reaffirming community bonds, Ashland Pride showcased not just the joy of participating but the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community.
Such events reflect changes toward acceptance and inclusiveness, engendering support within the local community.
The warmth felt during the parade mirrored the spirit of pride and solidarity among its participants and supporters, proving once more the festival was more than just symbolic—it was tangible and full of life.
