By Jennifer Ersalesi
Photo credits: Rutherford Pride Alliance
June is Pride Month across the nation. It is a month to remember the Stonewall uprising in June 1969 in New York City, which prompted the modern LGBTQ rights movement. Typically, the month of June is filled with celebrations, parades, and other events to celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ community, however, this year due to the pandemic crisis those activities had to be re-designed and reorganized. For this reason, the Rutherford Pride Alliance has kicked off Pride Month in Rutherford differently than it had last year.
RPA Vice Chair Ed Casadonte, Secretary Karen Masullo, and Thom Mack created a display in the Coccia window on Park Ave. Last year, the RPA also had a window display, but those designing it did not have to wear masks and a greater number of members were able to participate.
Although last year all were welcome to attend the inaugural Pride flag raising at Borough Hall on June 1st, this year due to the pandemic only a small group of masked Council members and Rutherford Pride Alliance members were able to gather (while respecting rules for social distancing) for the flag-raising. However, RPA Chair Rob Lyons put together a video to celebrate the flag-raising virtually. The video features his comments, as well as comments from others in our community, and those that represent our community, such as Congressman Bill Pascrell. The video also recaps all of the RPA's accomplishments this past year. Click here for a link to the video.
During this upcoming week, there will be a number of posts regarding LGBTQ education and how the Pride movement started on the Rutherford Pride Alliance Facebook page. There are also a few upcoming events listed on their Facebook page. On June 13th, Drag Queen Storytime with Harmonica Sunbeam will take place at 11 am. The RPA will host Virtual Bingo Night and More on June 27th at 7 pm. Follow these events and other RPA news and announcements by liking their Facebook page.
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