Grand Rapids Pride is an annual event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community in the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The festival is a vibrant and inclusive gathering that offers a space for the community to come together, share their stories, and showcase the diversity and strength of the LGBTQ+ population. The event features a range of activities and attractions, including live music performances, drag shows, dance parties, and art exhibitions. There are also educational seminars and workshops that focus on issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, such as advocacy, healthcare, and equality. One of the highlights of the Grand Rapids Pride festival is the Pride Parade, which draws thousands of participants and spectators. The parade is a colorful and joyous display of solidarity and pride, with individuals and organizations marching through the streets of downtown Grand Rapids, waving rainbow flags and wearing vibrant costumes.
"We also give an opportunity for people of non-pagan faith to come into an environment that's safe where they can ask questions." said Cimini, who explained the term Pagan describes a group of religions — some based on ancient beliefs, including polytheism — and a reverence for the divine as both masculine and feminine.
It s a time, pretty much, of giving thanks to the land, to the climate, to all those factors that are bigger than us, Cimini said, Saying, hey, thanks for the food that we re getting ready to harvest; thank you for preparing us for winter. It s a time, pretty much, of giving thanks to the land, to the climate, to all those factors that are bigger than us, Cimini said, Saying, hey, thanks for the food that we re getting ready to harvest; thank you for preparing us for winter.
The parade is a colorful and joyous display of solidarity and pride, with individuals and organizations marching through the streets of downtown Grand Rapids, waving rainbow flags and wearing vibrant costumes. In addition to the festivities, Grand Rapids Pride also serves as a platform for raising awareness about important social issues. The event often hosts speakers and activists who address topics such as discrimination, mental health, and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Michigan Pagans Celebrate Autumn Equinox, Pride Day
GRAND RAPIDS (WWJ) - Saturday evening will usher in the fall season, while Michigan pagans observe Pagan Pride Day in Grand Rapids.
Organizer, Shell Cimini, says the event will include information booths, vendors and other activities celebrating the Autumn Equinox, a time of thanksgiving in many Pagan traditions
"[It's] a time, pretty much, of giving thanks to the land, to the climate, to all those factors that are bigger than us," Cimini said, "Saying, hey, thanks for the food that we're getting ready to harvest; thank you for preparing us for winter. It's about gratitude right now."
The event takes place Saturday, Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., at Richmond Hills Park in Grand Rapids.
Cimini tells WWJ that people of all faiths are invited.
"We also give an opportunity for people of non-pagan faith to come into an environment that's safe where they can ask questions." said Cimini, who explained the term Pagan describes a group of religions — some based on ancient beliefs, including polytheism — and a reverence for the divine as both masculine and feminine.
"There's Neopaganism, there's Modern Paganism, there's Wicca . It comes under a variety of names," she said.
Cimini said they'll be collecting items for Feeding America West Michigan — an area food bank, giving — participants a way to share with those who are less fortunate while making a positive statement about Paganism.
The event is sponsored by local pagan community members, Sanctuary of the Winds, Grand Rapids Pagan Pride and area stores.
Learn more on the event's Facebook page.
Cimini tells WWJ that people of all faiths are invited.
Furthermore, Grand Rapids Pride extends beyond the festival itself. Throughout the year, the organization works to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community through various initiatives and programs. These efforts include providing resources, creating safe spaces, and fostering inclusivity in the city. Overall, Grand Rapids Pride is a vital and cherished event for the LGBTQ+ community in Grand Rapids. It serves as a platform for celebration, education, and advocacy, while also creating a sense of community and belonging..
Reviews for "Creating Change: How Grand Rapids Pagwn Pride Fosters a Welcoming Community"
1. Sarah - 1 star - I was extremely disappointed with the Grand Rapids Pawn Pride event. I had heard so much hype about it, but when I arrived, I found it to be a complete letdown. The selection of items available for purchase was very limited, and the prices were exorbitantly high. Additionally, the staff seemed disinterested and unhelpful. Overall, I felt like I wasted my time and money attending this event.
2. John - 2 stars - I attended the Grand Rapids Pawn Pride event with high hopes, but unfortunately, it did not live up to my expectations. The organization of the event was chaotic, with overcrowded booths and long waiting times to get assistance. The quality of the items on display left much to be desired, and the prices were inflated. I felt like the event was more focused on profit rather than providing a worthwhile experience for attendees. I would not recommend attending this event in the future.
3. Emily - 2 stars - As someone who enjoys visiting pawn shops, I was excited to attend the Grand Rapids Pawn Pride event. However, I was left disappointed with the overall experience. The event was poorly organized, making it difficult to navigate through the crowded booths. The prices of the items for sale were surprisingly high, and the bargaining aspect that is usually associated with pawn shopping was almost non-existent. I expected to find unique and interesting items, but instead, it felt like a glorified yard sale. The event's potential was not fully realized, and I left feeling underwhelmed.