Project Pride announces Silver Pride Sarasota on June 8

Local organization Project Pride SRQ – in collaboration with Senior Friendship Centers and Golden Girls Solutions – will present Silver Pride Sarasota, celebrating LGBTQ+ ages 50 and better on Saturday, June 8. This free event will take place from 12-5 p.m. at Senior Friendship Centers (1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota).

The afternoon will feature a performance by Azara Ballet, a DJ and dancing, drag performances, games and raffles, food trucks, tabling by local businesses and organizations, and appearances by various community leaders – including Sarasota County School Board member Tom Edwards – who will address the importance of knowing and understanding LGBTQ history.

Additionally, in alignment with its commitment to celebrating the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ relationships, Project Pride will present special legacy couples’ gifts for those who have been together for five years or more and register with the organization in advance of the event.

“As the older adult population in the United States grows, with the aging of the Baby Boomers, it’s important to understand the unique challenges faced by older LGBTQ adults, including economic and health disparities as well as social isolation resulting from the stigmatization of being LGBTQ in previous generations,” said Project Pride President Jason Champion. “It is such a thrill for us to see hundreds of community members who are so happy to be able to be who they are – openly – during the festivities and feel the joy of being part of an inclusive, warm and welcoming crowd.”

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Project Pride to celebrate our LGBTQ+ older adults," said Erin McLeod, President and CEO of Senior Friendship Centers. "Silver Pride is a wonderful opportunity to honor their resilience, acknowledge their contributions, and ensure they feel seen and valued and never need to ‘go it alone.’”

The week prior to Silver Pride, to kick off Pride Month in “grand” style, Project Pride will present its annual fundraiser – the Grand Carnival In Bloom – at the Sailor Circus Arena on June 1.

Silver Pride is free and open to the community. Valet and individual parking will be available on-site.

For more about Project Pride SRQ and its Pride Month events, visit ppsrq.org.

About Project Pride SRQ
Project Pride SRQ is a Sarasota-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community by creating strategic partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and governments towards a shared goal. From providing youth scholarships to organizing local gatherings, Project Pride has brought together LGBTQ+ and allied partners since 2019 to build capacity, support, and a vision for an all-inclusive community where everyone is equally united, supported, and celebrated in Sarasota and beyond. For more information, visit ppsrq.org.