Pride Celebration In West Orange Shows Love For LGBTQ Community

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Hundreds of people turned out to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community at an annual Pride event in West Orange last weekend.

The seventh West Orange Pride event took place at Town Hall on Sunday (see photos in gallery above).

Chairperson Gianna Garcia said the energy and enthusiasm from volunteers and attendees was contagious, helping to create a “truly inclusive and celebration.”

“This being West Orange’s Seventh Annual Pride Celebration, the positive impact of Pride has extended beyond its duration,” Garcia said.

“It has served as a catalyst for important conversations and raised awareness about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community,” Garcia continued, adding that it “encourages individuals to become more educated, compassionate and actively involved in equal rights.”

West Orange High School GSA President-Elect Parker Hawley spoke enthusiastically about living in a community where “being your authentic self” – whether trans, bi, queer or gay – was an empowering way to live. Hawley then raised the Pride flag, marking a high point in the annual celebration.

Volunteers and vendors operated booths, gave away Pride-themed items and enjoyed the music of DJ Justin Davis as food trucks doled out tasty treats to attendees.

Local businesses also pitched in at the celebration. Puras Puletas and Guerrero’s were on hand for ice pops and Pride ice cream. Meanwhile, Jarrett Seltzer of Bagels by Jarrett brought along a free supply of pizza.

“This year’s Pride celebration showcased a remarkable display of love, acceptance, and support for our LGBTQ+ community,” Garcia said.

Other community leaders and elected officials such as Assemblyman John McKeon and Director of Essex County Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs Reginald Bledsoe also cheered the local effort.

Mayor Susan McCartney congratulated the West Orange Rainbow Coalition for organizing the event, along with sponsors and collaborating township departments for helping to make this year’s celebration successful.

“June is National Pride Month and as our nation grapples and struggles with hate crimes and equal rights, we are here today celebrating and commemorating landmark and historic rulings relating to the LGBTQ+ culture, rights, and laws,” McCartney said.

“I say, welcome to West Orange, because our Township Proclamation says ALL people, regardless of age, gender, identity, race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, physical challenges, and sexual orientation have the right to be treated on the basis of their intrinsic values,” the mayor added.

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