SALISBURY — The largest celebration of diversity, pride and inclusion on the lower shore is returning and expanding in 2019.
Following two successful years, and in order to accommodate increasing interest and growing attendance, the event has been moved to Winterplace Park. The expanded event, scheduled for June 1, includes both a non-competitive 5K (with optional walk route) and a community fair. The purpose of the event is to show and build support for the LGBTQ community. All proceeds from this “fun” raiser will benefit The Lower Shore LGBTQ Coalition, Inc. and Salisbury PFLAG, Inc., two local non-profit organizations that provide education and support for LGBTQ people and their loved ones.
On-site registration begins at 7 a.m. and the race/walk begins at 8 a.m. The family-friendly community fair which begins at 9 a.m. is open to all and free to attend. The fair includes dignitaries, live performances, food trucks, vendors, corn hole, voter registration, a photo booth, button making, face painting, information tables, and more.
Tickets for the fun run/walk can be purchased in advance online at salisburypflag.eventbee.com for $15 per ticket or $50 for a group of four and include a commemorative T-shirt for each participant. Tickets can also be purchased on-site the day of the event for $20.
The Lower Shore LGBTQ Coalition was formed in May 2013 by several local agency workers and Salisbury University students after attending the Annual Conference, “Issues Impacting Mental Health of the LGBT Population.” The conference created an overwhelming awareness regarding the lack of resources and support on the Lower Shore of Maryland and the need to address this concern. The coalition seeks to improve and preserve the well-being of youth and young adults through support, education, and advocacy.
The Lower Shore LGBTQ Coalition, Inc. and Salisbury PFLAG, Inc., are pleased to continue their partnership as they come together to reduce intolerance and enhance acceptance of LGBTQ people through the Rainbow Fun Run/Walk and Community Fair.
For more information about either organization, contact Jennifer Riebe, president of the Lower Shore LGBTQ Coalition, at [email protected] or Shelly Copper, executive director of Salisbury PFLAG, at [email protected].