All The Pride Things
Hi everyone!
At farmers markets this last weekend, a lot of folks wished us a “Happy Pride Month!” and it made my heart soar. I’ve heard that phrase every year since I came out as a lesbian in 2007 (I came out as trans in 2020), but it felt like I only heard it for the first time.
It feels so good to be seen, to be celebrated, and to feel safe. These farmers farkets feel like a little oasis away from the rest of the world. I almost wrote “away from the real world,” but have to interrupt myself—because it DOES feel like the real world. Being physically around our local community alongside other businesses and organizations feels way more real than the hate that flows digitally (but that unfortunately can manifest physically in scary ways). Grateful for the caring and connected community that exists here in the Hudson Valley.
We have a few things planned for Pride Month — take a look below! Otherwise, you can see us being our always queer selves at the farmers markets and at the Underwear Factory. :)
-Rian
Supporting Queerwater
This month, proceeds from our Queer Cookies (debuting at Poughkeepsie Pride on June 10) will be going to Hudson River Sloop Clearwater’s Queerwater program.
Queerwater is an LGBTQ+ youth empowerment initiative where 14-18 year old teens from all over the Hudson Valley and NYC participate in a free, unforgettable 2-night, 3-day experience sailing on the Hudson River by day and camping onshore at night. Participants will engage in activities to learn about sailing and the Hudson River in an accepting space that celebrates who they are and encourages them to grow as individuals and community members.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Know someone who would benefit from this program? Learn more and apply here!
Hudson River Sloop Clearwater is a member-supported non-profit organization whose mission is to protect the Hudson River by inspiring lifelong stewardship of the river and its tributaries. The organization primarily does this through sailing education programs on its historic, 106’ Hudson River Sloop replica, the sloop Clearwater. On the Clearwater, students investigate the ecology, history, and environmental challenges of the Hudson Valley against the backdrop of the Hudson River.
DRAG ME TO THE MOVIES ft BUT I’M A CHEERLEADER
We are SO EXCITED for this. On June 20th, we’re teaming up with Story Screen Presents and Ame Presents for a very special screening of the iconic queer film But I’m a Cheerleader, along with a drag pre-show and intermission. Be sure to grab tickets now as capacity is limited. Also, while we do have cafe chairs, if you have a favorite folding chair or beanbag or cushion, bring it! Learn more and get your tickets here.
POUGHKEEPSIE PRIDE
Poughkeepsie Pride is coming up quickly! We hope to see you in Poughkeepsie on Saturday, June 10th. The Parade starts lining up at 11:00am at the intersection of Main St & Market St and steps off at Noon, and ends at the Waryas Park where the festival begins! Learn more about Poughkeepsie and get involved here!