PRIDE: One of Dayton’s most festive weekends moved back to later this summer

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Although the movement started during a dark time, Pride festivities are celebrated around the world and consist of colorful parades, parties and performances. Dayton Pride is no exception. Organized by the Greater Dayton LGBT Center, the event runs throughout an entire weekend, with an estimated 5,000 people in attendance.

Due to continuing concerns about the coronavirus spread, organizers made the “heartbreaking decision” back in April to postpone Dayton Pride. The event is now planned for Aug. 21-23, 2020.

“We all know that our world has been turned upside-down by the COVID-19 pandemic. We are all living a ‘new normal’ and we all have to take big steps to protect our health and the health of everyone in our community,” R.J. McKay, president of the Greater Dayton LGBT Center, said in a recent statement.

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McKay further explained the decision to postpone the event. “Even if we are able to socialize after the shutdown, we know that it will take our state and our community some time to bounce back both emotionally and financially ... It is our hope that the COVID-19 peak is long past by August and we are able to gather without the overwhelming emotions brought by this pandemic.”

The Greater Dayton LGBT Center will continue essential support groups, including Alcoholics Anonymous, SOAR-Survivors Overcoming Assault and Rape, Pozitive Attitudes HIV+, and The Gatlyn-Dame Transgender Group. They have made arrangements for these groups to meet remotely. For information on how to join the online meetings, please contact the Center at info@daytonlgbtcenter.org.

The Greater Dayton LGBT Center's mission to enhance lives and empower members of the diverse sexual and gender communities throughout the Miami Valley. Find out more at www.daytonLGBTcenter.org

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