WINDSOR — A few weeks ago, Windsor resident Amanda Smith was talking with a friend about Pride events in the area and she wondered if there was one in town.
There isn’t. So Smith decided to do something about it and from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday at the town’s fairgrounds on Route 44, a Pride festival will take place.
“It is coming together and because of this interest and support, I can really tell that this is something the community did need and were looking for,” Smith said.
The free event includes guest speakers, resource booths, faith organizations, businesses, political organizations and health centers. Activities for children include an LGBTQ+ storytime hosted by the library, face painting, live performances and kindness rock painting.
“It’s one thing to be a welcoming town, and it’s another to take steps to know that you’re a welcoming town,” said Smith, who graduated from Windsor High School in 2008 and returned in 2017 with her husband to raise their son, who is now 3.
“I just want him and all the other children growing up in this area (to know) that — however they identify — they’re welcome.”
Nonprofit organizations including WISE, Planned Parenthood and Valley Regional Hospital will be there to share what resources they have for LGBTQ+ people in the Upper Valley.
“For me, it was important to get organizations like WISE because domestic violence doesn’t just happen in heterosexual couples,” Smith said. The ACLU of New Hampshire also will be present. “It’s important for people to know their rights as well as health resources.”
Food will be available to purchase. There also will be a free raffle.
Smith hopes to make Windsor Pride an annual event.
“I think it will start something wonderful, start a conversation and help people be aware of resources in the community and hopefully show people that Windsor is a great place to live,” she said.
Editor’s note: For more information, visit Facebook: Windsor’s 1st Pride Celebration! Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com or 603-727-3221.
