BELOIT — In recognition of Pride month this June, several local organizations have planned a variety of events in Rock County to celebrate. From an LGBTQ+ comedy show to a day with games and food in the park for the entire family, the events run throughout the month of June.
“Pride month is a way to celebrate the unique and amazing people in the LGBTQ+ community. What began as protests against the mistreatment of the LGBTQ+ community in 1969 in New York City has flourished into a celebration of inclusivity, equality, and acceptance,” said Stephanie Hormig, LGBTQ+ Survivor Advocate for Family Services of Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, Inc. “By embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging, Pride events not only empower individuals but also inspire social change. We firmly believe that everyone deserves to live their truth authentically, and the Pride events aim to create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.”
The events include:
Out-N-About, June 11 from 12 — 6 p.m. at the Palmer Park Hilltop Pavilion, 2501 Palmer Drive, Janesville. People of all ages are welcome to this free event, which will include lawn games, face painting, a bonfire, a free clothing closet and more. Attendees are welcome to bring entertainment such as games, musical instruments, and art supplies. Bring a picnic or enjoy a food truck meal. Sponsored by Janesville Pride and Ezra’s Closet. No reservations required.
Pride Night Janesville LGBTQIA+ Showcase. Set for June 15 at 7 p.m. at the Comedy Cabin at 120 North Crosby Avenue, Suite 4 in Janesville, the event features comedians from the LGBTQIA+ community. Must be age 18 to attend. For more information and tickets, please visit www.cabinlaughs.com/shows/215815
Sky Carp Pride Night, with fireworks. The June 16 baseball game begins at 6:35 p.m. at ABC Supply Stadium, 217 Shirland Avenue, Beloit. More information and tickets at www.milb.com/beloit.
Rock County LGBTQ+ Educational Summit, June 22 from 8 a.m. — 4:30 p.m. at Blackhawk Technical College, 6004 South County Road G in Janesville. This free event features educational sessions on topics including gender-affirming care; LGBTQ+ Mental Health; allyship; LGBTQ+ myths; pronouns; the history of drag; and the intersection of the LGBTQ+ community and the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) community. Lunch will be provided at no charge.
The summit is sponsored by Family Services of Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, Inc.; Janesville Pride; Yellow Brick Road; the Rock County LGBTQ+ Committee; and Blackhawk Technical College. To register and for more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/RCLGBTQ
Virtual Pride Auction, begins June 23 at 5 p.m. and runs through 5 p.m. on June 25. Auction items will include such things as all mediums of art; décor; fragrances; food items; and services such as photography, yardwork, and cleaning. Proceeds from the auction benefit the Rock County LGBTQ+ committee. To join the auction or for information on donating one or more items to the auction, please visit https://www.facebook.com/RCLGBTQ.
Rainbow Resource Fair, June 28 from 1-7 p.m. at the Hedburg Public Library, 316 South Main Street, Janesville. People of all ages are invited to gather, connect, share, and learn about services for Janesville’s LGBTQ+ community. Snacks and activities available while supplies last. No charge.
Family Services includes the following programs: DEFY Domestic Abuse; the Sexual Assault Recovery Program (SARP); Individual & Family Counseling Program; Praxis Employee Assistance Program; Youth2Youth 4 Change; and The Neighborhood Resilience Project. For more information about Family Services, visit www.familyservices1.org.
Family Services is a funded partner of United Way Blackhawk Region and United Way of Green County.
