Winston-Salem to celebrate Pride this Saturday

Tens of thousands of people are expected to march their way through downtown Winston-Salem tomorrow morning in honor of Pride. 

Following the parade, there will be bands, drag performers and speakers on two stages along Trade Street. Attendees can also check out more than 100 vendors and 12 food trucks. 

Jerry Morin, the president of Pride Winston-Salem, says the day is going to be fun and positive, but it’s been a challenging year. 

“We've lost some legacy sponsors that have been with us since 2013 simply because the DEI wording in some of the executive actions that this administration has put in place," Morin said. 

Several Pride parades across the country are facing financial challenges with sponsors pulling out. But Morin says the organization has been able to budget for the losses. 

The parade this year also falls on “No Kings Day.” Activists across the country will be marching in protest of what they say are authoritarian actions under President Donald Trump. 

These demonstrations are happening in High Point and Lexington, but in Winston-Salem, organizers have opted to march with the Pride Parade instead of hosting a separate event.

Rudy Click, with Camel City United Indivisible, says there’s a clear connection between the two causes as the administration has targeted LGBTQ rights. 

“They’re being hurt. And so to be in Pride and say that we want to stand with you in solidarity; We do not want a ruler over us," Click said. "Nor should you want someone that does not respect your humanity.”

Carol Templeton, with Indivisible Piedmont Action, will also be marching in the parade. 

"It's about freedom for Pride in the Pride community, freedom to be who they are and to love who they want to love, and it's an opportunity for their allies to uplift and support them," Templeton said. "And it's also combined with the 'No Kings.' It's about our freedom from tyranny."

Morin says there has been some confusion and fear in the community about the implications of a “No Kings” event at Pride, but emphasizes that the parade will be peaceful and safe. 

“They're celebrating, just like the rest of us. You know, they have a message, they've agreed to deliver it to our standards of parade and celebration. So we’re going to hold them to their word," Morin said. "We just want everyone to come enjoy, celebrate Pride, and know that we're creating a safe space for them."

More information about the parade can be found on the Pride Winston-Salem website.

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.