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Buffalo Pride Week reimagined for 2020 due to COVID-19

Posted at 1:11 PM, Aug 11, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-11 13:14:45-04

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Organizers for Buffalo Pride Week 2020, which was scheduled for June 1 to June 7, announced in April the celebration was postponed.

The week-long celebration will now take place from August 17-23 with non-crowd-based programming.

“Love, inclusivity and unity give us strength in a year that has been turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Justin Azzarella, vice president of community development at Evergreen Health. “Pride as a concept – as a time to reflect and raise our voices – will always remain, whether we celebrate at a distance, at home or online. We’re excited to bring the Western New York LGBTQ+ community and its many supporters together in new ways, to rejoice in the name of diversity and acceptance. This year especially, Pride embraces people of all walks of life, including those who are black, brown, and every color of the rainbow.”

Beginning August 14 Pride flags will line the usual Pride Parade route on Elmwood Avenue from Forest Avenue to Allen Street, and Allen Street, from Elmwood Avenue to Main Street.

Organizers say "Home Sweet Pride," a reverse parade, will replace the usual parade.

"In this reverse parade, instead of floats going by houses, we decorate the houses as we would floats. Decorate homes, businesses and neighborhoods in colorful and jubilant Pride decorations. Share your pictures with the hashtag #buffaloprideweek and tag @buffaloprideweek."

Organizers are also asking what pride means to you through its "Speaking with Pride" initiative.

"Pride has a different meaning for everyone, and we want to hear what it means to you. Post written content, photos, songs, quotes, memes and other contributions on social media, use the hashtag #buffaloprideweek and tag @buffaloprideweek. We'll share your posts throughout Buffalo Pride Week to uplift members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community."

Below is the full Buffalo Pride Week event schedule:

8/17-8/23 Home Sweet Pride
8/17-8/23 Speaking with Pride
8/19 REVpride Ride / Strength Party
8/20 Outdoor Dance Performance: Birds Excited into Flight
8/21 GLYS Diversity Prom
8/21 Virtual Vogue Night Competition
8/22 Queen City Kings Drag Presents: ROAR! A Drag Pride Show