Sat 8/13 @ noon-6PM
Following the sudden and inadequately explained cancellation of Cleveland Pride last Thursday just a little more than two weeks before its scheduled date, a coalition of area LGBT leaders has announced a replacement “visibility” event that will give those who typically attend Pride a chance to come together and celebrate.
Phyllis Harris, executive director of the LGBT Community Center; Cleveland City Councilman Kerry McCormack; state representative Nickie Antonio; the City of Cleveland’s Department of Economic Development, Kevin Schmotzer and members from the following organizations the LGBT Community Center, Plexus, the HRC Cleveland Steering Committee, GG9, Stonewall Democrats, Stonewall Sports Cleveland, WH2, Dare2Care, Margie’s Hope and Equality Ohio are working together to present a new event on the same date.
Dubbed Pride in the CLE, it will take place at the newly redesigned Public Square. According to the organizers, it will “engage, inspire and empower event participants in visibility and celebratory activities that highlight the diverse LGBTQ+ community of Greater Cleveland.
The fact that they are working with the city to pull off an event with less than two week’s planning undermines the statement of Cleveland Pride CEO/President Todd Saporito that the event was cancelled because the city failed to step up and provide the necessary safety planning and leaves the canceling of Cleveland Pride still a question mark.
“The Pride in the CLE planning committee features representation from 18 separate organizations and has worked closely with city officials, law enforcement and community leaders to ensure our security,” say the organizers. “After a successful meeting with the City Steering Committee and receiving their full approval, The Center and the planning committee are confident in providing a safe and secure event that is inclusive and open to everyone.”
Here’s an event schedule:
• The Pride in the CLE march- Whether you are walking as part of a group/organization or as a proud individual, the March is an opportunity for our feet to walk together as a unified community over the Detroit-Superior Bridge and into Downtown Cleveland.
• The Pride in the CLE festival – With entertainers, live music, exhibitors and special surprises, the festival will encircle the new Public Square.
The timeline for “Pride in the CLE” is as follows:
11:00 AM – March line-up at the northeast end of the Superior Viaduct
12:00 PM – March begins at the northeast end of Superior Viaduct, festival entrance open
1:00 PM – March will end at Public Square
6:00 PM – Festival ends