Pridefest FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of Pridefest?
A: Pridefest has several purposes. First, it’s a commemoration of the Stonewall Riots that took place in New York City on June 28, 1969. The riots were a result of police persecution of gay people and raids on establishments such as the Stonewall Inn. For more information see the website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stonewall_riots
GLBT people still do not have equal rights with non-GLBT people and are frequently discriminated against simply because of their sexual orientation or sexual identity. For this reason, it’s necessary to continue to raise the visibility and awareness of the GLBT community. For most of the year, we’re an invisible minority. Pridefest gives us a chance to remind the Rochester community that we exist and we’re part of the diverse community that makes up Rochester.
Finally, it’s a chance for us to get together as a community, develop relationships, and enjoy some fabulous entertainment.
Q: Why are the block party and the main event being held in the Peace Plaza?
A: We’re holding these events at the Peace Plaza for several reasons. It gives us visibility which is one of our goals of Pridefest. Second, it’s a central location. Third, it actually saves our festival money due to the location, facilities, and partnerships with businesses such as the Kahler Hotel.
Q: Why aren’t vendors allowed to sell food?
A: This restriction is due to the partnership/contract we have with the Kahler Hotel for the use of the Peace Plaza. However, there are many restaurants around or near the Peace Plaza so there are still many food options available for attendees.
Q: When did Rochester have its first Pridefest?
A: The first one was held in 1998.
Q: Why don't you have a parade for Pridefest?
A: We would consider having one if we had enough volunteers and willing participants to make it a successful addition to our festival.
Q: Who is represented by the committee and how can I get involved?
A: The committee represents a wide range of ages, interests, and backgrounds. Both men and women are involved with the planning of Pridefest and its activities. Anyone that wants to be involved is welcome to attend our committee meetings or to join our committee e-mail list. Use the feedback form on this web page to get more information.
If our FAQ did not answer your question(s), or if you have comments, ideas, suggestions for entertainers, etc., please send
them to us by using our feedback form. If you would like a reply to your message,
you must provide us a valid e-mail address. You may optionally provide input to our survey of our 2011 Pridefest:
Note: Any information you provide to us will be used
only for our own planning purposes, and it will not be sold or given to any outside sources.
All payments should be made through our secure online payment service or by mail via check or money order.
Please do not send cash in the mail.
