On Saturday, people gathered at Laing Park in Alliance to celebrate PRIDE in the Park as part of Pride Month.
Organizers Josh MacDonald and Richard Landgren explained that the event was a success, seeing a larger turnout and more vendor participation.
“Josh actually started PRIDE three years ago, and I initially wasn’t involved,” said Landgren. “Last year I helped, and this year everyone’s life has been crazy. It was a really fun experience. I was able to network and meet new vendors. Several vendors said they would love to come back again, and several of them are returning from last year.”
MacDonald said he was grateful for the help from volunteers and from sponsors that aided in the celebration’s success. Landgren said many local businesses donated to support the event.
“Businesses were more receptive,” Landgren said. “Holiday Inn Express donated us two hotel rooms for the performers, which is amazing. We had products donated from various stores. We had people volunteer to help with the set up. I would like to thank all of our sponsors and vendors. It’s amazing, just the amount of growth we’ve had in vendors alone.”
Former Senator Al Davis, who is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor, and Larry Bolinger, who is a candidate for Attorney General, were also at the event, Landgren noted.
“It was amazing to have politicians come to our small-town PRIDE,” Landgren said. “That almost never happens.”
Landgren noted that the event continues to grow, and that he believes will become a pillar in the community’s summer activities.
“It’s a safe environment,” said Landgren. “It’s a great environment to become educated and be entertained. You don’t have to change your point of view, but you can broaden your horizons.”
The event is one of several organized by Alliance for Change. Each event is meant to offer an opportunity for equal representation.
“We’ve done a couple of other events on top of PRIDE in the past,” said MacDonald. “Last year, we hosted a metaphysical event. We’re just trying to show people we’re not just for one thing in this town, but other things that need to be broadened a little bit more. We tend to be closed minded in these smaller areas.”
Langren explained that events like PRIDE in the Park offer an opportunity for inclusiveness.
“We’re trying to expand what ‘Nebraska Nice’ means,” Landgren said. “We’re trying to be much more inclusive of people, because we’re your neighbors. We’re your co-workers. We’re your bosses. We’re your friends. We’re your family, and we’re people. We matter.”