| "Here in Meadville we are spreading love and acceptance," Northwest Pennsylvania Pride President Alex Sphon told a crowd of more than 100 Saturday afternoon in Diamond Park in Meadville. Allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community gathered for the annual event that has grown from just over 50 people five years ago for a march in Conneaut Lake to an afternoon festival with street vendors along Chestnut Street. |  |
Sphon told the crowd that action is needed to move the Pennsylvania Fairness Act through congress though it's stalled. He also said the federal Equality Act is also not making much progress through the system. He urged those in attendance to contact legislators and get others involved in doing the same.
"We need to get these (pieces of legislation) moving. There are people who want to erase us from culture," Sphon emphasized.
Meadville Mayor Jaime Kinder urged action to change employment rules and more telling the crowd that votes can also be used with dollars urging people to support businesses that support equality. She emphasized that as mayor, she has their backs and will keep fighting for equality in Meadville.
"We need to get these (pieces of legislation) moving. There are people who want to erase us from culture," Sphon emphasized.
Meadville Mayor Jaime Kinder urged action to change employment rules and more telling the crowd that votes can also be used with dollars urging people to support businesses that support equality. She emphasized that as mayor, she has their backs and will keep fighting for equality in Meadville.
Kinder was one of a half dozen speakers calling for more action towards equality. The event kicked off in Diamond Park featuring informative speakers and some drag performances. The crowd then marched around the park before heading down Chestnut Street for a street festival with vendors and informational tents.
There was no shortage of rainbow colors and support for one another. Below are more photos from the event.
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