It’s been 50 years since the Stonewall Riots in New York City ignited a movement of empowerment for the country’s LGBTQ+ community, but only two since Homer hopped on board with the annual celebration of Pride Month.
This year’s Pride Walk from WKFL Park to Ocean Drive drew hundreds of men, women and children out to form a long rainbow snaking through the streets of Homer in celebration of equal rights for all.
Last year, former Homer Mayor Bryan Zak made an official recognition of June as Pride Month in Homer.
Participants gathered this past Saturday for music and speeches from members of the community in WKFL Park ahead of the walk. At the end of the route, the Grace Ridge Brewery beer garden was flooded with participants and walkers enjoyed a family-friendly celebration and food in the parking lot in front of Homer Real Estate Associates.
There, additional speakers gave their perspective on Pride and what it means in the Homer community. One speaker was Tess Dally, a vocal advocate and member of Homer’s disabled community. She spoke of how much her community shares with the LGBTQ+ community, and how both groups needs to continue to fight for equal treatment.
From there, the party moved to Bishop’s Beach for a bonfire and community potluck.
Reach Megan Pacer at mpacer@homernews.com.
Walkers celebrate this year’s Pride Walk while making their way along Ocean Drive on Saturday, June 22, 2019 in Homer, Alaska. (Photo by Megan Pacer/Homer News)
Participant’s in Homer’s second Pride Walk make their way up Ocean Drive on Saturday, June 22, 2019 in Homer, Alaska. (Photo by Megan Pacer/Homer News)
Participants in this year’s Pride Walk make their way up Ocean Drive on Saturday, June 22, 2019 in Homer, Alaska. (Photo by Megan Pacer/Homer News)
Martie Krohn speaks to a crowd of people before the second Homer Pride Walk on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at WKFL Park in Homer, Alaska. (Photo by Megan Pacer/Homer News)
Doug Koester speaks to a crowd ahead of the second Homer Pride Walk on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at WKFL Park in Homer, Alaska. (Photo by Megan Pacer/Homer News)
