Reflections on Pridefest, with joy and gratitude
Together, Northport Village Trustee Meghan Dolan and Village resident Joe Schramm spearheaded the Northport Pride flag raising on June 1 and inaugural Pridefest on June 17.
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As we look back at the first-ever Northport Pridefest that took place almost one week ago, we are filled with awe, joy and appreciation.
Awe for a hopeful idea fleshed out by Northport Village Trustee Meghan Dolan and resident Joe Schramm; an idea that was driven by bravery and compassion.
Joy for the memory of children and adults coming together to celebrate equality with rainbow flags, shirts and accessories proudly flaunted in the middle of Northport Village Park; the memory of people dancing, writing thoughtful messages and sharing meaningful experiences with one another.
And appreciation for everyone who came out and made it all possible, from the Northport Village Police Department, Mayor Donna Koch and Trustee Dave Weber, to the three beyond-impressive high school students who spoke in front of hundreds of people, local business owners and organization leaders who showed tremendous generosity, and artists who offered their talents to create an uplifting experience. Each participant played a role in creating what felt like a day of true togetherness and acceptance.
The Northport Pridefest is now a symbol for a community that, in the last few years, has made great strides in promoting kindness and inclusion. With the help of thoughtful leaders and inspired residents, it’s a community that we can all proudly call home.
April Heyman, President of the Long Island Pride PTSA, with second grader Mena Saporita.
Northport High School students Sadie Callahan, Anna Tumbarello and Ethan Soda spoke at Northport Pridefest in front of hundreds of attendees, telling their personal stories and expressing their gratitude for such an event in their community. Soda said that experiencing Pride in Northport made his dream come true.
Steve Chassman, executive director of LICADD, spoke about mental health during Saturday’s event.
The Northport-East Northport Public Library had a table with sand art for kids and many giveaways, including Pride ribbons, frisbees and pins.
Fifth graders Ella Gribben and Zoe Wood showed their colors as allies to the LGBTQ+ community.
Generations came together to celebrate Pride in Northport Village Park.
A family poses in front of three of many Pride flags hanging in Northport Village Park.
The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus was the first performance at last Saturday’s Pridefest.
A group of supporters posing at the June 17 Northport Pridefest.
A Pridefest attendee roots on the speakers with joy and enthusiasm.
Pridefest volunteers Shelley Pierce and Sarah Anderson lent a hand throughout the June 17 event.
Second grader Ruby Kay volunteered at the Southdown Coffee table that gave out treats to Pridefest committee members and volunteers.
Hundreds of people gathered in Northport Village Park for the first-ever Pridefest, which included over 30 vendors, ten speakers, performances by the Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus and Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island, and entertainment by DJ Manny from Keep Dancing Entertainment.
