COVID-19 and Pride 2020

Each day brings new evidence of how the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting lives – how we live, how we work, how we suffer and how we survive. Each day also brings new choices about how to respond to this unfolding crisis. The most pressing of those decisions in recent days has been about OutFront Kalamazoo’s plans for Kalamazoo Pride 2020.

Since we first announced our intention to reschedule Kalamazoo Pride, we have closely monitored the latest information about the disease and its impact on our communities. Over the past four weeks we’ve considered data from the medical community, consulted with civic leaders, sponsors and allies in order to determine our best course of action. Throughout all of these conversations, our highest priority has been the health and safety of Pride attendees, volunteers and staff.

After weighing all options, it is clear that Kalamazoo Pride 2020 should not be rescheduled this year but, instead, must be cancelled.

I know this is disappointing news. This has been a difficult decision for countless reasons. Kalamazoo Pride has always been more than a celebration – it has been a way to raise our visibility and galvanize our victories. Pride has helped us find new audiences and allies, strengthening our capacity and resolve to persist. While we will not gather in person this year, OutFront will stand with you in showing the world that we are #StillProud.

In the next few weeks we will be posting a calendar of virtual events that will take place during the month of June. You’ll especially want to mark your calendar for Friday, June 5th for OutFront’s Pride Month kick off, inspired by your suggestions. In fact, all of these imaginative event ideas have been sourced from the community. It is this kind of creativity and passion that encourages me every day. The LGBTQ+ community has always been resilient - in even the most tumultuous of times, and these times are no exception.

Thank you for continuing to help our community stay healthy, safe, strong and PROUD.

In Solidarity –
Amy Hunter
Executive Director, OutFront Kalamazoo