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The Chicopee Queer Consortium would like to thank all those who came together to make this Pride happen. 

 "The first Pride was a riot" is more than just a sound bite or a slogan for tshirts. It was a reaction to those in the LGBTQIA+ community who had been hiding and harassed for far too long. On June 28th, 1969 at a small bar, The Stonewall Inn, in downtown New York, patrons finally fought back against the police who had been using "masquerade" laws to harass people at the bar. While details are still sketchy to this day the underlying meaning has been clear since the first march on the anniversary of the riot in 1970 -We are here and we will no longer hide our true selves. 

  Pride has evolved over the years to include a more celebritory feeling. Now there is dancing, singing, parades, speeches and all manner of joyful acts. However, if these last few years has taught us anything it's that the closet we were forced to live in has not closed it's door. The ever looming spectre of laws which force us to hide who we are ready to be codified with far too much speed. 

The Chicopee Queer Consortium was formed to help celebrate all in the LGBTQIA+ community in all ways so that we can all be reminded that we are a vibrant, vital part of any community and we will not be hidden again. Our beauty and diversity brings joy to lives. We deserve to live as our true, authentic selves as much as any other person. 

Joyous Pride. If no one has told you yet today- You are beautiful. Thank you for being here with us.