Q-Seattle Events: Tacky Tourist Clubs

You might well have asked, based on a previous post or two about this issue, "Just who it is that is holding those discussions about a non-SOAP sponsored event?" Well, there is now semi-official confirmation of those other discussions. This comes from Ray Carter who served on the Freedom Day Committee (FDC). That's the group that successfully guided pride activities through much of the 80s and 90s.

I am writing this missive as both as an individual and as a former Pride Co-Chair. I am writing to you as friends, acquaintances, correspondents, colleagues, and fellow LGBT activists who understand the importance of avoiding a year without a Pride event.

I have, since roughly February, had the privilege of working with a group of experienced community members (the AdHoc Committee) with the initial vision of Plan B Pride lest SOAP implode, morphing to working with the LGBT Center on a Saturday Capitol Hill event, and in light of the below, returning to our original priority of ensuring there is a 2007 Pride in Seattle. The group is in no way, shape, or fashion affiliated with, in negotiation with, or associated with Seattle Out and Proud - and strong opposition exists to any change in that complete lack of association with SOAP, based on a wide variety of very practical considerations. The group is composed of former FDC folk, activists, and business persons and is open to virtually all members of the community. Diverse viewpoints are very welcome, but given the time frame (7 weeks) this is a working group as opposed to a forum for pontification or extended negotiation.

Odds look good that the seattlepride2007.org website will go live within 48 hours with substantial details, but the last discussions focused on a Sunday June 24 Pride March on Broadway stepping off at 11am from Broadway and Pike, with a Rally similar to 2004 and before with entertainment, speakers, food, beverages, and a movie night in Volunteer Park. Pride is the single largest outreach and community event in the Seattle LGBT community.

To make Seattle Pride '07 happen, volunteers and funding are needed and quickly. We especially need to hear from former FDC folks.

For the moment, I urge you to contact the Seattle Gay News for further details, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, and status reports. Please pass this along to any/all interested parties.

Labels: Gay Seattle, Seattle, Seattle Pride