The infamous month of Pride came and went in a blur of rainbows, smudged make-up, and remnants of glitter. This year marked a new beginning for Pridfest STL - new location, major corporate sponsors, and more local and national celebrity entertainment. When Pride St. Louis, Inc. announced the new location of the event - Soldier's Memorial, I would be willing to say that at least fifty percent of the community had a downright shit fit. It created a rift within the community and spawned a separate movement devoted to keeping the festival in Tower Grove Park. There were arguments and bickering via social networks and virtual social environments between those who agreed with the move and those who were anti-downtown.
Shortly thereafter, the folks at Pride St. Louis made two other announcements - the names of the major corporate sponsors (Monsanto & Bud Light) and the highly debated no pets mandate. The whole Monsanto thing seemed to convince folks that PSTL had sold out to the evils of corporate 'Merica! Sure - but without the big fat donations from said evils - the entertainment budget (among others) would greatly suffer. They gave you Andy Bell as a headliner for Christmas sake! Anyways, the whole no pet rule instigated more controversy - especially amongst those who were already anti-downtown. I was a bit miffed and torn on this one. Here's why: It's generally hot as a camel's crack, crowded, and hectic. I get that people love their dogs and want to take them everywhere they go, but there are times where owners need to step back and ask themselves - will my dog truly enjoy this experience with absolutely no discomfort or harm? I know that my pup would rather stay home in the air conditioning.
As Pride season neared, the community began to stir. Social planning and preparations went into high gear. Questions were raised - are you going and if so what days/times? white party - yay or nay? what time is the parade? can I borrow that rainbow leotard again? This year the buzz really blew up after the Supreme Court ruling on DOMA and Prop 8. That night - the party officially began. It was a great night to celebrate and a fantastic way to kick off Pride weekend. At that point, I became oblivious to the venue debate. I was committed to being a part of it all and focused on keeping an open mind. I wasn't truly sure what to expect but decided to embrace the change and roll with it. After all, it is Pride, and it only comes around once a year. A lot can change in a year...
