10/20/2024
How do we fully encapsulate what the past seven years have meant to us in a single Facebook post? Last night, we hosted our final Pride Orange City. An event that we have felt so proud to share each year. When Pride Orange City started out, it was because four friends had the courage and determination to bring together folks from northwest Iowa who identify as LGBTQ+, to give a place of refuge for a few hours to fully be themselves. Through these years, we have grown in what it means to be an event, through our collective experiences, and as people who show up to these spaces. We could not have done this without each and every one of you walking through the doors of our events and trusting us with your time, heart, and energy. Through the lens of adversity and celebration, you’ve shown up for this community. We have massive amounts of love for each of you.
To our volunteers, Prairie Winds Event Center Staff, neighbors, space holders, performers, and change-makers, we cannot thank you enough. Showing up for Pride has meant showing up in some of the most conservative areas in Iowa, and participating in creating community- we are more thankful than we can ever express.
The sentiments were shared last night but we will echo them again. Pride is you, showing up, every day, living in your truth. Pride is holding spaces of connection and community. Pride is creating a life where you are happy and deserving of all the good things. Please continue to invest in your self. Please continue to support in area Prides and our performers. Because keeping these spaces is so important. This is how we thrive.
Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude and appreciation today. Thank you for seven years of friendship.
Love, your Pride Orange City planning team and board members 🌈😘
