Pridefest 2017

Lately in our current political climate, it can feel like all our hard-won liberties are at risk of slipping away, eroding piece by fragile piece.  Maybe that’s why this year’s Milwaukee Pridefest felt like a tiny respite from the trauma of the 24-hour news cycle.  This was largest attended Pridefest to date. The kaleidoscope of colorful flags and outrageous outfits, the head pounding bass of the dance pavilion, and the glitz and glitter of Pride was not dissimilar from years past, but what struck us most was the ever-evolving progressiveness of the LGBTQ+ community and at the same time, the ever-present necessity of why we celebrate every June.  We loved seeing all the people, especially younger folks, draped in transgender, non-binary, bisexual, and asexual pride flags.  We loved the catchy t-shirts so many wore displaying how unabashedly proud of who they are, and the queer families with their kids just enjoying the warm Wisconsin June afternoon.  And while throughout the year and these tough political times there is often in-fighting and worry and fear, that all seemed to melt away for a days.  This is why we Pride.