Rutland hosts first Pride event on Saturday

Article originally published as “Rutland hosts first Pride event on Saturday” by Liz Strzepa

June 20, 2023

NBC 5

RUTLAND, Vt. —

Saturday's rain didn't dampen the spirits at the first Rutland County Pride event.

Members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies gathered for a street festival downtown to take in a series of performances and check out vendors.

Rutland mayor Mike Doenges proclaimed June as Pride Month in the city and said he hopes the event sends a message that Rutland is a welcoming and inclusive place.

The mayor also said he hopes the observance reminds Vermonters to keep working to make sure everyone feels safe, respected and celebrated.

LGBTQ+ community organizers said Vermont has more Pride celebrations this year than in any other year prior, with events next weekend in Bethel, Burlington, Newport Bennington and Middlebury.