Westport Pride: Prouder Than Ever!
Sixth Annual Celebration Featured Broadway Performer, Community Entertainers, and Remarks from State and Local Officials
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Westport's annual Pride Day reached a milestone this weekend, drawing more participants than any previous year to Jesup Green for its sixth consecutive celebration of the LGBTQAI+ community. Ideal weather and a packed program of performances and speakers contributed to what many in attendance described as the event's most memorable edition.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal joined 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and other state and local elected officials on stage to affirm Westport's commitment to welcoming all residents. Their remarks struck themes of love, belonging, and the strength that comes from an inclusive community.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Among the day's highlights was a performance and personal reflection by Jamie Martin Mann, a Westport native who has gone on to a career on Broadway. Mann spoke about his formative years growing up in town, paying tribute to several local educators and arts mentors. Students from Staples Players (all wearing Players Pride tees) contributed a rousing number from the musical Les Misérables, while dancer Van Goldberg captivated onlookers with an energetic solo routine.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Cassandra Fiore gave a powerful speech about a friend who had recently passed, followed by a call to action for the community to provide safe spaces for our queer youth. And then, of course, there was a fantastic performance from the celebrated drag performer. Ending the program, there was an energetic performance from the band “The Splits”, preceded by some playful crowd banter.
Beyond the entertainment, Jesup Green hosted a wide array of community organizations — nonprofits, religious congregations, and civic groups among them — reflecting the depth of support the event has built across Westport over the years. There were therapy pups, including one called Oakley, who entranced attendees. Another highlight included the freshly made (and complimentary) rainbow challah bread offered by Temple Israel.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Westport Pride would like to express warm gratitude to all of the sponsors, vendors and food trucks who contributed to the celebration.
Next up for Westport Pride: The community is invited to continue the festivities at Westport Pride's next Happy Hour, July 2nd at Yuzu Restaurant on Main Street.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
