After an Unexpected Absence I’m Back!

After an unexpected absence I’m back for LGBTQ “rush hour”: Pride Month. Gatherings and parades are happening every weekend in June… and beyond. Some festivities are short day events such as in Grand Junction Colorado and Casper, Wyoming while others, like Vancouver British Columbia, last for six weeks where theirs will culminate in a huge parade on August 3rd where over one-half million usually attend. The International Fireworks Festival final show the prior night is not to be missed where the final competitors from around the globe get to send up their best on this last night of spectacular pyrotechnics over English Bay! It’s a show not to be missed… nor is the Parade!

On a calmer note, Denver Colorado’s Gay Pride Festival, 21 and 22 June, sees the center of the city transformed into a street party that draws people from many states. Our friends in Wyoming are looking for plenty of hands to be up early Saturday morning to help build their float and staff their booth. So cowboys and gals, get your chores done and head on down to Denver for a fun weekend and support the fundraising.

Hot desert temps always cool down festivities in Tucson which celebrates Pride in a more moderate Autumn, but, party or no, there’s an important thing for everyone everywhere to do:

June 27th is National HIV Testing Day… everyone has a status and knowing it is the most important first step to keeping you and others safe and well. Put aside any fears, find a clinic in your area and get the confidential test. Most places are free or may only charge a small amount. Knowing is worth its weight in gold. Go for it! Do it! Do it now!

And have a great Pride Month!