By Zoyer Zachary Zyndel
Calling all leftist and progressive community members: Take part in one of the largest community events of 2019. The annual Fresno Rainbow Pride event takes place on June 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Fresno’s historic Tower District. As one of the best-attended events within the LGBT community in the Central Valley, this is an opportunity to both show solidarity with the LGBT community and build networks around our common goals.
With the current administration continuing to make changes that put the LGBT community at risk, coalition building is key and essential for the progression of the collective movement. The only way to move forward is with an understanding of commonalities, unity and the help of each other.
The Fresno Rainbow Pride Committee invites all leftist thinkers to attend with their organization members. This is the time for resistance, and the LGBT community is familiar with both the hardship that comes from oppressive forces and the benefits that take effect when working as a cohesive coalition. This year, the parade’s 29th anniversary is celebrated with the theme of “Together in Pride,” which symbolizes strength in numbers when moving as a united force.
Organizations are being called on to add to the growing solidarity of left communities through partnership and attendance, which often is the best form of visible support. The LGBT community is a loyal community and has a history of supporting people and organizations that support them and values around fairness and equality. Participation in Fresno Rainbow Pride is a good way to show support for all members of our community as we work toward inclusion of all people and demographics in the Fresno area.
For those who may have family members, friends or other loved ones who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, this is an opportunity to attend a welcoming event that celebrates diversity in our community. Those who identify as straight also are strongly encouraged to attend; straight allies are held in high regard for all their support.
Participate in this amazing community celebration now in its 29th year. Be part of one of the longest running events that keeps Fresno diverse.
Fresno Rainbow Pride includes a parade from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. through the heart of Fresno’s historic Tower District with various contingents who march in support of the culture and pride of the LGBT+ community. The festival portion, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., includes food and merchandise vendors and informational booths along with a dynamic live entertainment tent.
Your visible support during this special day helps to build a stronger community in the Fresno area. To secure an informational booth or to participate as a contingent in the parade, get more information at fresnorainbowpride.com.
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Zoyer Zachary Zyndel has worked as a community organizer with Fresno Rainbow Pride for 13 years handling public relations. He has been active in the LGBTQ community and currently serves on the board of PFLAG Fresno as vice president and Trans-E-Motion as the chair. His background is in English and social work.
