Rainbow Pride of West Virginia

06/19/2026

Keep LOVING LOUDLY!

Thanks to Cabell County Public Library for the flashback moment.

We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

Happy Pride!

This week’s local history spotlight honors West Virginia’s first state organized pride parade. While Huntington as a city wouldn’t hold a pride parade until 2019, Charleston would hold the state's first pride festival on June 22, 1997. Following the national theme of “Equality through Visibility,” the march would run for about a mile along Kanawha Boulevard from the city office to the capitol building. While the parade was the main focus of the event, the festival would also feature a picnic, musical performances, and local speakers. Of note, this particular celebration began Rainbow Pride of West Virginia's tradition of awarding “Power of One Medals”, which are awards intended for openly LGBTQ+ West Virginia natives who have demonstrated the difference that one person can make within their community. While the first parade only had about 300 attendees, Charleston’s Pride Celebration now hosts thousands as the celebration continues to grow despite legislative pressure. Now, this celebration is just one of many across the mountain state, showcasing the importance of belonging and acceptance.

06/19/2026

Happy Juneteenth!

If you're in the Charleston area, come out to celebrate with our friends at Juneteenth Charleston WV. Their parade and festival are happening today!!

We are stronger TOGETHER!

Check out their linked FB page for all the details!

06/16/2026

UPDATED:
Thursday June 18th at 5:30pm is the next monthly Trans Support Group meeting.

Whether you’re seeking connection, guidance, or just a place to feel understood, this group is here for you.

All 18+ are welcome in this safe, inquisitive, and affirming space! 🩵🩷
🤍
🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈 Rainbow Pride Center – 1611 4th Ave, Charleston’s West Side

*regular group meetings are the 2nd Thursday of each month unless RPWV events or the group alters it. Keep following us here for up to date information and times*

06/16/2026

Tonight members of our Pride Board along side community members and City Council members received the June Pride Month Proclamation from Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin and the City of Charleston.

What great company to stand alongside our friends at the Juneteenth Charleston WV committee as well ❤️

Thank you Mayor Goodwin and Charleston City Council for being a supportive partner with Rainbow Pride of WV and our community. The work continues! ❤️🏳️‍🌈

Happy Pride!

During this evening's Council meeting, Mayor Goodwin recognized:

🏳️‍🌈 Pride Month – commemorating the Stonewall Uprising of June 1969, recognizing the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals to our communities, and affirming the importance of fostering a culture of respect, belonging, and opportunity for all.

✊ Juneteenth – commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, honoring the resilience and contributions of African Americans, and providing an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history and reaffirm our commitment to freedom, equality, and opportunity.

🧠 Migraine Awareness Month – raising awareness of a neurological disease that affects millions of individuals and families and highlighting the importance of education, support, and treatment.

06/11/2026

We are absolutely overwhelmed — in the best way possible — by the turnout at this year's Pride Festival. Seeing so many of you show up, celebrate and stand together meant more than words can say.

To every person who came out, volunteered, performed and cheered: THANK YOU. You are what makes Pride so powerful. This community continues to inspire us, and we are so proud to celebrate alongside each and every one of you.

Here's to love, visibility and many more years of showing up for one another. 🌈❤️

Photos courtesy of

06/10/2026

We're still feeling the love from our Pride Parade this past Saturday!

ICYMI check out these photos!!

If you took any fun pics, share a few in the comments

06/10/2026

Friday's Drag Race + Block Party was everything and then some. Thank you Charleston for bringing the energy and love! We're still glowing. 🏳️‍🌈✨

Drop a ❤️ if you were there!

Thank you for the amazing shots!