So... I'm late on getting this post put up and I apologize to all of the people I saw this weekend in DC and who asked me "what's up with your Baltimore Pride post!!??" Well... here is is folks. But first... I'm gotta start off with some Baltimore Pride thoughts before Baltimore Pride information.
Now before you hit the "Oh S#$t button," let me be clear about something. Although I have some feelings about the major changes that occurred with Baltimore Pride this year, I have nothing but respect and admiration for the work that the organizations involved do for the LGBTQ community in Baltimore and Maryland at large. In fact, in the course of one week, I'll be DJing to support the GLCCB, Equality Maryland, and Chase Brexton. 3 different events... three different organizations... all INCREDIBLY VALUABLE TO US.
I'm sure you have ALL heard the changes going on this year with Baltimore's Pride festival. If you have not, let me tell you.
-Date was changed 2 times: Once from fathers day weekend to the weekend after, and then once again back to fathers day weekend. Very confusing for businesses and employess alike!
-Location is changed: No longer block party in Mt. Vernon, Festival in Druid hill Park. Now both days will be a block (several blocks really) style event located in Station North.
- There will be NO TAILGATING BEHIND EDDIES/HIPPO. There will be people there making sure that you do not enter the lot. And if you try anyway you're probably going to get towed. Don't say I didn't warn you!
My Reactions:
-Was completely confused about when/where/how I was going to DJ all the events i've committed to with the multiple date changes. With time and patience it was all worked out.
-Disappointed that the festival is not in the heart of Baltimore's well known LGBTQ community, allowing the businesses to benefit from increased traffic and support from the community they exist for.
-Sad that I won't get to spend fathers day with my father-in-law and Mom at the festival on Sunday tipping the drag queens (there is no real shade in station north and too much walking, so they won't come.)
-Can't bring my goddaughter to come and play at what is usually the family day. (too hot/no shade).
-Date was changed 2 times: Once from fathers day weekend to the weekend after, and then once again back to fathers day weekend. Very confusing for businesses and employess alike!
-Location is changed: No longer block party in Mt. Vernon, Festival in Druid hill Park. Now both days will be a block (several blocks really) style event located in Station North.
- There will be NO TAILGATING BEHIND EDDIES/HIPPO. There will be people there making sure that you do not enter the lot. And if you try anyway you're probably going to get towed. Don't say I didn't warn you!
My Reactions:
-Was completely confused about when/where/how I was going to DJ all the events i've committed to with the multiple date changes. With time and patience it was all worked out.
-Disappointed that the festival is not in the heart of Baltimore's well known LGBTQ community, allowing the businesses to benefit from increased traffic and support from the community they exist for.
-Sad that I won't get to spend fathers day with my father-in-law and Mom at the festival on Sunday tipping the drag queens (there is no real shade in station north and too much walking, so they won't come.)
-Can't bring my goddaughter to come and play at what is usually the family day. (too hot/no shade).
With all that said, I want to encourage you to STILL COME TO PRIDE!
Yes, you heard me. And no, it's not just because I'm Djing on the mainstage on Sunday at 3:45pm-4:15pm (Plug Plug)
It's because pride is the one time a year that everyone in Baltimore and the surrounding areas comes together. People of all ages, genders, races, and labels or lack thereof come together and celebrate our existence as members of this community or supporters... and we do it together. You may have some feelings about all the changes... and you're entitled to! I know I did and still do! But I love Pride month and all that it stands for. I love being around the community and giving back with music, Djing, and raising money. I love Baltimore. And most of all, I LOVE LOVE LOVE the organizations that Pride benefits, as well as the other organizations that are having pride activities deserving of our support! Pride has been a part of my life since I came out... and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm thankful to be a part of it again this year.
My wife was also recently invited to be the 5th parade judge, so that's a really awesome experience for her, and a fun way to be a part of Pride :)
I've run out of room... so check out Part 3! :)
Yes, you heard me. And no, it's not just because I'm Djing on the mainstage on Sunday at 3:45pm-4:15pm (Plug Plug)
It's because pride is the one time a year that everyone in Baltimore and the surrounding areas comes together. People of all ages, genders, races, and labels or lack thereof come together and celebrate our existence as members of this community or supporters... and we do it together. You may have some feelings about all the changes... and you're entitled to! I know I did and still do! But I love Pride month and all that it stands for. I love being around the community and giving back with music, Djing, and raising money. I love Baltimore. And most of all, I LOVE LOVE LOVE the organizations that Pride benefits, as well as the other organizations that are having pride activities deserving of our support! Pride has been a part of my life since I came out... and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm thankful to be a part of it again this year.
My wife was also recently invited to be the 5th parade judge, so that's a really awesome experience for her, and a fun way to be a part of Pride :)
I've run out of room... so check out Part 3! :)
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