It's honestly hard for me to believe that Indy Pride really only started as I was entering my young adult years. The first Pride event occurred in 1981, when I was in high school, at the no longer in existence Essex House with a dinner. It wasn't until 1988 that a "public" event was held, a festival that attracted 175 people at the Indianapolis Sports Center. By 1991, the event was moved to the Monument Circle area and attracted an attendance of around 3,000. From 1992-1994, it moved to University Park. In 1995, Indy Pride, Inc. was established as an organization. However, some not so great choices resulted in a substantial debt that was finally resolved by the end of the 90's. Throughout this time, the event continued with the support of The Word and Justice, Inc.
I know. I know. A review isn't supposed to be a history lesson, but I think the history of Indy Pride is vital because this event has become such a vital, important part of the Indy landscape. Celebrating the LGBTQ community in Indy and beyond, Indy Pride has grown from a couple hundred attendees to being a multi-block, festive, family friendly event attracting thousands of attendees and a slew of vendors from businesses to non-profits to churches and many more. While some lament that the event has become more "family friendly," there's something incredibly awe-inspiring about an upbeat, festive, love-filled event which embraces such diversity and celebrates those who attend. There's a parade, food drinks, musical performances, celebrities, vendors, and so much more that you can easily attend and spend a good majority of the day.
As an organization, Indy Pride "exists to unite and serve its members and the LGBTQ community of Central Indiana through leadership development, educational and support programs, and community events that achieve inclusivity, equality, strong community connections, and awareness of LGBTQ issues." It's "wholly volunteer-managed non-partisan, tax-exempt, not-for-profit corporation that organizes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Pride events in Central Indiana. Indy Pride, Inc. welcomes the participation of all, regardless of age, creed, gender, gender identification, HIV status, national origin, race, religion, sexual origin, and regardless of ability. Indy Pride, Inc. is governed by the Board of Directors elected by its membership."
The event is largely wheelchair friendly and the LGBTQ community, while imperfect like the rest of society, works hard to be inclusive of those with disabilities and my experience has been everyone involved with the festival does an absolutely incredible job at being inclusive. While I've had times when I struggled when wheeling through grassy areas, the availability of assistance is obvious and the entire vibe of the event is one of unity, acceptance, and celebration.
This is unquestionably one of my favorite events of the year and it's an important event for many people I love. As an organization, Indy Pride has become amazing at holding events throughout the year and at promoting the arts, wellness, healthy living, and much more in its special events and regular activities.
Typically held in June at this point, this is definitely an event I recommend attending, participating in, or even volunteering in some capacity. You will feel loved, appreciated, and you'll feel like you've discovered a tribe. read more