For more information and the latest event updates, visit kypride.com and follow @PrideInKY on Facebook and Twitter and @kentuckianapride on Instagram.
Kentuckiana
Pride Foundation BY DAWN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
J
une may be national LGBTQ+ Pride Month, but in 2021 the Kentuckiana Pride Foundation will present the annual Festival, Concert, and Parade on October 8 & 9 at Big Four Lawn in Downtown Louisville. The Kentuckiana Pride Foundation is in its 21st year of operation and has “grown tremendously” in that time, says KPF President Rodney Coffman. This is Rodney’s 20th year volunteering with the 501(c)3 KPF, and he is serving his third two-year term as President after seven years as Treasurer. Rodney first became involved shortly after moving to Louisville in 2001.
With KPF’s history, “we have the confidence and the respect of the community.” According to Rodney, KPF has become more politically involved over the past 6-8 years, whereas before that work was primarily left to other human rights organizations in the area. “Each organization has its role, and we embrace them.” The Kentuckiana Pride Foundation and Festival is still all about pride and celebration. “I encourage you to attend Pride. I understand the apprehension. But if you try to make a genuine connection, bring a friend, and you will find that Pride embraces everyone, regardless of race, sexuality, or gender identity. I am always happy to share the experience,” says Rodney. “I am most excited about coming together to celebrate normalcy. This year, Pride is like a victory. ‘We’re here! We made it!’”
discounts at concessions and gift shops. Pride Day at Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay is July 18th, with an evening drag show to close out a fun-filled day. In August, KPF will have table space at Play Louisville dance bar for Community Turnabout with community leaders and a drag show! KPF Pageants will be held in September. SPONSORED BY LG&E
Despite the October Festival dates, KPF has not forgotten June as the traditional Pride Month. June 27th is KPF’s annual Family Day Out at the Louisville Zoo. KPF and Louisville Zoo are providing discounted tickets and
“We started with grassroots fundraising. Whether you are LGBTQ+ or an ally, we are safe and all-inclusive for families and kids as well. The landscape of acceptance is continuing to change.” KPF’s Mission is “Promoting social, economic, and health equity of Kentuckiana’s sexual and gender minorities, we advocate pride, celebrate achievements, and educate leaders.”
Courtesy photo
TOPS LOUISVILLE | June 2021 127
