By WMBD TV
NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD) — Members of the LGBTQ+ community gathered Sunday for Prairie Pride Coalition’s annual Pride Picnic at Anderson Park in Normal.
The event featured food, conversation and community-building in a family-friendly environment as part of the organization’s Pride Month celebrations.
Prairie Pride Coalition Secretary Elizabeth Fox Anvick said the picnic has been a longstanding tradition, dating back roughly 30 years.
“This is our annual family reunion picnic,” Fox Anvick said. “All the friends and family and allies of LGBTQ-plus individuals in the surrounding area come together, enjoy company and food and just a picnic atmosphere.”
Fox Anvick said events like the picnic are especially important as people look for opportunities to connect with others.
“A lot of us are longing for community these days,” she said. “Being able to see a friendly face and just have a nice conversation and enjoy one another’s company, I think that’s really important.”
Organizers say family-friendly Pride events help make the LGBTQ+ community more visible while creating a welcoming space for people of all ages.
Fox Anvick said representation can have a meaningful impact, especially for young people who may be questioning their identity.
“Seeing representation is being seen, and everybody wants to feel like they’re seen,” she said.
The event has grown significantly over the years. What once consisted of a small group of organizers grilling for about 20 attendees has expanded into a larger gathering featuring community organizations and support groups.
Fox Anvick estimated around 100 people would attend Sunday’s picnic.
She said she hopes visitors leave feeling welcomed and connected.
“I just hope everybody goes away with a sense of good feelings,” she said. “Everybody wants a hug, and I hope that this is a hug for people.”
Prairie Pride Coalition’s next major event is Pride at the Zoo, scheduled for July 17.
WMBD TV first reported this story. You can read the original story online at CIProud.com.
