LGBTQ Pride In West Orange: Flag Raised, Young People Inspire ‘Awe’

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Several local events took place in recognition of LGBTQ Pride Month in West Orange, including a celebration at Town Hall.

Despite a few raindrops, the first Downtown West Orange event of the summer celebrated Pride at Town Hall on June 26.

The Downtown West Orange Alliance organized the event with the support of the township, the West Orange Public School District, and West Orange Police Community Services Unit. Garden State Equality was also present, and the Edison Middle School Gay Straight Alliance helped to supervise younger attendees.

FLAG RAISING AND CHALK WALK

Earlier that month, the West Orange High School celebrated Pride Month with a flag raising outside the Conforti Office, and a “Chalk Walk” featuring drawings and art from students and staff.

Organized by the Lambda Equity and Diversity Alliance, the June 12 event was held to recognize and support LGBTQ students and their allies, organizers said.

“The students that presented at our Progress Pride flag raising are the personification of bravery,” advisor Jen Dahl said.

“To share personal experiences and the raw emotions that accompany rejection, questioning, judgment, and love despite shaking hands and quivering voices to possibly bring about increased understanding and a little more acceptance – that's courage,” Dahl said.

“I am in awe of these young folks, and so incredibly proud of them,” Dahl added.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here.