Jesus went where people are. So do we.
Historically, Pride arose as a march of people longing for dignity amidst dehumanization; life in the face of death; human connection in the face of isolation and invisibility.
Today, Pride continues as a time of dignity, visibility, and celebration of life. It reminds LGBTQ+ people that, though hardships abound, they are valued and loved.
NYC Pride is the largest pride event in the world – with as many as 5 million of our neighbors from “every tribe, tongue, and nation” in attendance.
Every year, Kaleidoscope is present at a variety of Pride events to proclaim to our own people that, through Christ, we can turn toward our Creator as our whole selves – and belong in God’s Chosen Family marked by Jesus’ justice and mercy.
Free Mom & Dad Hugs
Across three Pride festivals, Christian parents and/or pastors offered free hugs to festival attendees.
“I felt pretty awkward the first time I went to give hugs two years ago. I can't express how significant and impactful it was for me! I also have no measurable gauge for how it impacted all the people I hugged, but I know what some of them told me:
"I haven't seen my dad in years. Thank you for that dad hug."
"Wow. I haven't even been hugged in a long time."
I also saw several crying just because they appreciated that someone would go out of their way to love them.
For me I felt like I was actually doing something Jesus would do. I felt like I could love on some of the ones who are most often hurt by the church. I felt like I could fill a parent space for some who had lost that connection. I felt like I could show people what unconditional love could look like. It changed me in a lot of ways!”
–A Dad and volunteer at Free Mom & Dad Hugs
Ally Apologies
At two Pride festivals, straight and cisgender Christians took ownership for individual and collective wrongs Christians have committed against LGBTQ+ people and communities.
"Queerness Is..."
At Washington Square Park, we invited passersby to participate in an art project, completing the sentence "Queerness is..." with paint, illustration, stickers, and words. We then offered a card with a word of encouragement (affirmation) about God's love for Queer people.
Popcorn, Pins, & Prayer
Outside Stonewall, Christian pastors, allies, and LGBTQ+ people offered free enamel pins, rainbow popcorn, and prayer to passersby.
Honoring & Remembering
At Central Park, we invited passersby to write the name of someone who had shown them love and acceptance in their life. We invited them to participate in our bridge-building activities year-round and offered prayer.
Pride Festival Booths
At Harlem, Queens, and Manhattan Pride festivals, we handed out free iced tea, stickers, and zines. We invited festival-goers to participate in our programs year-round and offered prayer by and for Queer people.
Stand with Us
Kaleidoscope is an LGBTQ-led grassroots organization training dozens of volunteers – humble allies, ministers, family members, and fellow LGBTQ+ people – to offer spiritual resources at Pride for queer people interested in exploring or reconnecting with faith in Jesus. Stand with us by following, donating – and considering joining us next year.